Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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260. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if all halal slaughter in Ireland requires pre-stunning of animals; what animal welfare standards and veterinary supervision apply; and whether there are any exemptions to pre-stunning under current EU or national regulations. [55687/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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It is not mandatory that all Halal slaughter in Ireland requires pre-stunning under current legislation. My Department verifies compliance with EU Regulation 1099/2009 on Welfare at Slaughter. Article 4(4) of this Regulation specifically permits animals to be slaughtered without stunning if slaughtered under certain religious rites.

Ken O'Flynn (Cork North-Central, Independent Ireland Party)
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261. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine whether his Department has any oversight or auditing role in verifying the halal certification of food products used in public sector catering, including school meals; and if so, to detail the agencies responsible and the frequency of inspection. [55688/25]

Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael)
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My Department has no oversight or auditing role in any aspect of halal certification of foods, including those used in public sector catering or school meals.