Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 2 July 2024
329. Deputy Réada Cronin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the number of licences issued to persons (details supplied) in the matter of equine handling and-or slaughter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27832/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is understood that the question refers to Certificates of Competence in relation to Animal Welfare Officers.
Article 17 of Council Regulation (EC) No 1099/2009 on the protection of animals at the time of killing requires slaughterhouses to designate an animal welfare officer to assist them in ensuring compliance with the rules laid down in the Regulation. These animal welfare officers are responsible for the supervision of animal welfare and must hold Certificates of Competence in the operations for which they are responsible.
Certificates of Competence may be awarded to slaughter plant operatives who demonstrate that they have undergone an approved course in Animal Welfare at Slaughter.
The applicant for a Certificate of Competence must sign a written declaration confirming that he/she has not been convicted within the three years preceding the date of application of any infringement in relation to the protection of animals under national or EU law.
With regard to the two persons named, following verification of applications submitted, a Certificate of Competence issued to the first named individual on 21st April 2017. A Certificate of Competence issued to the second named individual on 16th February 2017.
