Written answers

Wednesday, 24 March 2021

Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine

Greyhound Industry

Photo of Joan CollinsJoan Collins (Dublin South Central, Independents 4 Change)
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2020. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the reason Greyhound Racing Ireland lists a greyhound (details supplied) as rehomed when the dog was actually exported to China; and if he will investigate and take action against persons involved in the direct or indirect export of greyhounds to China. [15385/21]

Photo of Charlie McConalogueCharlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Rásaíocht Con Éireann is a commercial state body, established under the Greyhound Industry Act, 1958 chiefly to control greyhound racing and to improve and develop the greyhound industry. Rásaíocht Con Éireann (RCÉ)  is a body corporate and a separate legal entity to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The Irish Coursing Club (ICC) has been the keeper for the Irish Greyhound Stud Book since 1923. Details of the ownership of greyhounds, are kept in the Stud Book. 

The first part of the question is an operational matter for RCÉ and has been referred to the body for direct reply to the Deputy.

With regard to the export of greyhounds, rules covering the movement of all breeds of dogs, including greyhounds, between EU Member States are set at European level. My Department does not certify exports to the country referenced.

RCÉ has informed my Department that it is opposed to exports to countries that do not meet Ireland’s welfare standards.  RCÉ emphasises to owners their responsibilities in exporting to any destination and the necessity to ensure that the receiving destination provides the expected levels of greyhound welfare set out in its Code of Practice on the care and welfare of greyhounds. I fully endorse this view.

In addition, the International Greyhound Forum continues to give consideration to issues relating to the export of greyhounds. 

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