Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)
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2040.To ask the Minister for Rural and Community Development the arrangements made with subsidised ferry operators and connecting bus transport links to ensure carriage of small animals such as cats and dogs that need to be brought to veterinary surgeons on the mainland; and if she will make a statement on the matter.[35038/24]

Heather Humphreys (Cavan-Monaghan, Fine Gael)
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The manner in which small animals such as dogs and cats are carried on subsidised transport services for the islands is a matter for each operator. The Department does not compel or restrict the carriage of any type of domesticated animal on subsidised transport services. However, each operator is obliged to have appropriate Health and Safety policies in place to ensure that services are delivered in a safe manner.

It is a matter for each transport operator to put in place the arrangements they consider appropriate for the carriage of small animals on their vessels/vehicles, having regard to the safety of all passengers and crew, while also considering factors such as local demand/requirements and the suitability/capacity of the vessel/vehicle.

As with all Health and Safety issues, the master/skipper/driver will make the final determination as to whether and how an animal may be carried on a service, and will refuse to do so if the safety of the boat, passengers or crew is compromised.