Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats)
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956. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his attention has been drawn to a live animal export episode in Cork Harbour documented by a group (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35498/18]

Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
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I can confirm that I have received representations from the group referred to in your question.

The protection of animals during transport and related operations is legislated for by Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 and S.I. No. 675 of 2006 European Communities (Animal Transport and Control Post) Regulations 2006.

The protection of animals during transport on dedicated livestock vessels and Roll–On/Roll-Off vessels is legislated for by S.I. No. 356 of 2016 Carriage of Livestock by Sea Regulations 2016 and S.I. No. 580 of 2007 Diseases of Animals (Animal Transport) (Roll–On Roll-Off Vessels) Order 2007.

DAFM inspectors were present at all stages of the consigning of the livestock from assembly centre to arrival and penning on board the vessel.

DAFM inspectors ensured the correct procedures were applied at the various stages of assembly, loading and transport of the animals in question. It can also be stated that high animal welfare standards were maintained throughout the operation.