Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent)
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385. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the reason behind his decision to introduce a 125 km rendering restriction on knackeries; the discussions to date with the knackery industry on the measure; if he is satisfied that this measure is not anti-competitive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48332/13]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The operation of the TSE Subsidy Scheme has been examined in my Department and a number of changes have been introduced on a ‘best practice’ basis which include enhanced compliance provisions and putting some limits on distance material can be carried whilst maintaining choice.

This examination took into account a number of considerations including TSE testing requirements, Animal By-Product Regulations, the need to maintain competition and the need for an adequate collection and disposal infrastructure.

Under the new arrangements each Animal Collector will be able to choose to use at least two rendering companies. Each Animal Collector licensed by my Department and each rendering company on the island of Ireland have been invited to express their interest in being included in panels to operate the revised scheme which it is envisaged will be in operation from the 30^th November 2013.

These revised terms and conditions only apply to material collected and disposed under the TSE Subsidy Scheme that my Department operates to facilitate the TSE testing of over 48 month bovines as required by EU legislation. Any Animal Collector who wishes to opt out of this scheme will, subject to compliance with Animal By-Product regulatory requirements not be bound by the revised scheme rules.

The new arrangements will be subject to a 6-month review in light of experience and my officials are open to discussion at any time with any stakeholders on matters of concern to them.