Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 25 June 2024
324. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of animal welfare checks that were made at a company (details supplied) since the start of its operations; to provide the results of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27198/24]
View answerSince its approval as a slaughter plant in 2015, my Department's officials have had a permanent presence at the slaughter plant mentioned on days where animals were slaughtered. This generally occurred once a week but not necessarily every week. In addition to ongoing welfare checks, all slaughter plants approved by my Department are subject to a full Animal Welfare Audit at least twice a year carried out by the Official Veterinarian which examines all aspects of welfare at the plant. In addition, the plant is audited annually by the Regional Superintending Veterinary Inspector who reviews plant activities (including animal welfare) and official controls by DAFM staff.
Details of Official Controls carried out under animal welfare during transport and animal welfare at the time of killing are reported to the European Commission and published as appropriate on an annual basis in the Multi Annual National Control Plan (MANCP).
