Mick Wallace (Wexford, Independent)
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153. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the measures in place to deal with persons or shops who are found to have sold illegal substances for use in the greyhound industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6675/15]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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My Department's role in relation to combating the selling of illegal substances is not limited to the greyhound industry but embraces all animal species, with a particular focus on food-producing animals in order to protect consumers. Bord na gCon is the statutory body responsible for the regulation of greyhound racing under the Greyhound Industry Act 1958. In addition Bord na gCon has specific statutory powers conferred on it under the Greyhound Industry (Racing) Regulations 2007, which relate to the conduct of greyhound racing.

My Department's regulatory role in relation to veterinary medicines generally, which derives in the main from EU legislation designed to ensure common, scientifically-based, high standards, apply across all member states, is focussed on ensuring that only appropriately licensed products are imported into and sold in Ireland in accordance with authorised and licensed distribution channels. The main national legislation governing this area is the European Communities (Animal Remedies) (No. 2) Regulations 2007, (SI 786 of 2007). While this legislation applies to animals generally, additional requirements apply to medicines for animals entering the food chain, which are designed to protect consumers from either unauthorised products, or residues of authorised products in excess of those scientifically found to be safe.

A significant element of the control regime is a licensing process for those involved in the commercial distribution of veterinary medicines at both wholesale and retail levels. In order to obtain a license, applicants must demonstrate that they meet requisite standards in regard to storage and record-keeping, particularly to ensure traceability of products through the system.

Licensed outlets are inspected by my Department's inspectorate to ensure compliance with the conditions of their licenses and with the animal remedies legislation in general. In addition, my Department's Investigations Division investigates any suspected or reported illegal activity in relation to the animal remedies regulations. Breaches of licence conditions or of the legislation generally may result in suspension or revocation of the licence and can also include prosecution in the Courts. T hose found guilty of offences are liable on conviction in the District Court to be fined up to €5,000 and/or a term of imprisonment of up to 6 months, or, if convicted by the Circuit Court, to a fine of up to €500,000 and/or imprisonment up to 3 years.