Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 18 June 2024
278. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he can guarantee that animals unsuitable for consumption have not entered the food chain given the changes to micro-chipping and identities revealed by RTÉ; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26288/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe footage broadcast on RTÉ Investigates that aired on Wednesday and Thursday 12 and 13 June 2024 was extremely upsetting. I share the reaction of viewers who were appalled by such a blatant disregard for the welfare of horses and suspected criminality.
You will be aware, as has been reported in the media that there is an active investigation taking place led by the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine and An Garda Síochána and while it is vitally important that I ensure that process continues without prejudice, I am stating categorically that the full rigour of the law will be applied, and no stone left unturned.
It is important to recall that responsibility for placing safe food on the market lies with the food business operator. My Department takes the protection of the food chain extremely seriously and there are robust controls in place at the slaughter plant in question. These include a full time veterinary presence in the plant on the days on which slaughter takes place, the carrying out of ante mortem and post mortem inspections by veterinary practitioners and identity checks involving checks on documentation and on the central database, carried out in accordance with the legal obligations.
The activities shown and reported on regarding identification, show what would appear to be illegal activities which impact on the traceability system. My Department has already commenced an investigation into these matters with the support of An Garda Siochana and the full force of the law will be brought to bear to ensure that there are appropriate consequences for those responsible.
