Clare Daly (Dublin Fingal, Independent)
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407. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to reports of smuggling of sheep across the Border in September 2017 causing concern for sheep breeders in the area; and the steps he is taking to prevent such illegal activities. [40256/17]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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I am aware of a recent report of alleged illegal movement of sheep into the Republic of Ireland. The health of the national sheep flock relies on the observance of identification and trade rules. Sheep smuggling results in the breach of these rules and could pose disease risks for the national sheep flock. Reports of illegal movement of sheep are examined by staff in my Department. Where evidence of a breach of identification or trade requirements is established, such cases may be prosecuted, provided the evidence is considered sufficient to sustain a conviction. My Department works closely with An Garda Síochána and with the corresponding authorities in Northern Ireland in an effort to combat farm-animal related crime. I want to assure the Deputy that should evidence of illegal movement of sheep into the country be substantiated, every effort will be made to have the matter prosecuted.