merrion street

The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Mr Simon Coveney, TD, commented on the seizure earlier today by Custom Officials, assisted by Department of Agriculture staff of a consignment of 18 pups who were in the process of being illegally exported to the U.K. through Dublin Port. The animals involved were being transported in an unapproved vehicle with very poor ventilation and had no accompanying paper work.


Minister Coveney confirmed that his own officials and customs officers had been engaged in joint operation in recent times at ports with a view to stamping out this illegal trade. The Minister said “I would like to thank custom officials and my own officials for their efforts in bring about this seizure”. He also thanked the DSPCA for their assistance in taking care of the seized animals.

Minister Coveney added that European Union rules regulating movement of dogs and pups must be adhered to in all circumstances. The Minister noted that pups and dogs exiting the country must be accompanied by a pet passport to show that they are identified by a microchip and are immunised against rabies. Dogs being moved out of the country for sale or change of ownership must be accompanied by an official health certificate showing that they come from a holding or business registered with the Department and that these holdings are not subject to any movement ban on animal health grounds.

The Minister emphasised that registered export premises must undertake to have the dogs regularly examined by their veterinary practitioner and must ensure that animal welfare requirements are met. The dogs must also undergo a clinical veterinary examination within 48 hours of departure, to confirm that they show no signs of diseases and are fit to be transported for the intended journey. The vehicle being used for the transport must be approved by the Department and in be in compliance with Regulation (EU) No. 1/2005


ENDS


Note for Editors

Movement of all dogs between Member States is governed by Regulation (EU) No 576/2013 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 June 2013. This Regulation, which came into operation on 29 December 2014, is implemented in Ireland under the Pet Passport (No. 2) Regulation 2014.