I propose to take Questions Nos. 880, 881, 882, 883, 884, 885 and 886 together.
My Department takes the matter of animal welfare most seriously and is committed to the enforcement of the Animal Health and Welfare Act, 2013. My Department carries out inspections on exotic animals kept as pets in private ownership only on foot of complaints received, similar to other pets.
My Department investigates all reports of alleged animal neglect or cruelty received, and appropriate action is taken up to and including enforcement where appropriate. My Department does not differentiate between species, therefore, my Department does not maintain disaggregated records relating to inspections, seizures and enforcement actions involving exotic pets as distinct from other animals.
In relation to which public body holds lead statutory responsibility for the routine inspection and enforcement of animal welfare standards in respect of exotic animals, it would depend on the species of exotic or wild animal. For instance the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wind Fauna and Flora (CITES) and associated regulations may be applicable, in which case these wild animals fall under the responsibility of the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).
Anyone who sells or supplies 5 or more pets annually must register as a pet seller with my Department. As part of the process, pet sellers must undergo an annual inspection by a Private Veterinary Practitioner. That register highlights that circa 30 inspections are carried out annually on sellers/suppliers of exotic pets.
In relation to zoonotic disease, public health risk and biosecurity threats, there is robust EU legislation in place to prevent the introduction and spread of exotic and zoonotic diseases in Ireland. Under EU regulation 429/2016 - Animal Health Law, a comprehensive framework for the prevention and control of transmissible animal diseases has been established to enhance biosecurity. All exotic pets entering Ireland must pass through a designated point of entry where they undergo checks. In addition, these animals are subject to EU sanitary requirements.
My Department, continues to monitor and undertake preparatory work in respect of exotic diseases in Ireland. Awareness posters are present at arrival points to the EU in accordance with the requirements of Regulation 2019/2122
My Department does not keep records on the number of veterinary inspectors employed who have availed of formal training in the treatment and welfare of exotic animal. My Department enlists the services of suitability qualified experts as required.
My Department liaises with all online platforms that sell pets reminding them of the obligations in relation to the regulations surrounding exotic pet sales. In response to this, websites who sell exotic pets will not allow owners to advertise the sale of pet animals unless they have a Pet Sales Registration number. Any pet sales advertisements that are reported to my Department for potentially being in breach of any of the guidelines are investigated. Where breaches of the regulations are found, advertisements are removed and the owners are then investigated through the relevant channels. My Department does not keep a record of investigations undertaken into online platforms specifically.
My Department has no plans at this time to conduct a time-bound formal review of Ireland’s approach to regulating exotic pets.
