Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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616. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide an update on the agreement on non-commercial movement of pet animals and pet passports, achieved under the Irish EU Presidency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36180/13]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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Agreement was reached during the course of the Irish Presidency on a new regulation to replace Regulation 998/2003, which lays down animal health requirements for the non commercial movement of pet animals, primarily for rabies control.

Under the EU rabies regime pet dogs, cats and ferrets can travel with their owners around the European Union provided they are accompanied by a ‘pet passport’ certifying the pet’s identification, rabies vaccination status and (for travel into Ireland and some other Member States) tapeworm treatment. Rules are also in force for pets brought into the EU from other countries.

Regulation 998/2003 is being replaced primarily for legal reasons with a view to bringing provisions into line with the Lisbon Treaty. The obligations on pet owners have not changed. However, the opportunity has been taken to clarify certain aspects and to make some amendments to improve the practical implementation of the regime including pet owners who have to return to the EU in a hurry (sudden natural disaster, political unrest, severe personal circumstances) will now be able to bring their pets with them under special permit even where the pets have not properly prepared. Difficulties in making travel arrangements will be eased by allowing pets to be transported unaccompanied by their owners where justified. Exemptions from rabies vaccination may be possible between rabies free areas.

As an addition to the strict checking regime for entry into the EU, the new regulation also makes specific provision for official pet passport checks on pet travel between Member States, thus prioritising protection against rabies for all EU citizens.

The new regulation is more user friendly and all Member States will be obliged to provide clear and easily accessible information to the public on the requirements for travel with pets.