Seán Haughey (Dublin Bay North, Fianna Fail)
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830. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he is satisfied with the current regulations in place for the operation of domestic animal cremation services; if he plans to amend these regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15866/22]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
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Domestic animal cremation is typically carried out in low-capacity incineration facilities and seven such incinerators are currently approved by my Department.

Deceased pets are classified in law as animal by-products. Plants carrying out low-capacity incineration of animal by-products are approved and supervised by my Department in accordance with the EU Animal By-Products Regulations (EC) No 1069 of 2009 and its implementing Regulation (EU) No 142 of 2011, which lay down the health rules regarding animal by products and derived products not intended for human consumption. These regulations are binding, with direct effect on all Member States.

Official controls are carried out by Department veterinary inspectors to ensure compliance with the regulations and with the specific operational conditions laid down for plants involved in the low-capacity incineration of animal by-products including pets.

I am satisfied that these regulations are operating effectively and there are no plans for amendment at this time.