I propose to take Questions Nos. 823 and 824 together.
The movement of bees within the European Union is governed by Regulation (EU) 2016/429 (the Animal Health Law) which is supplemented by Commission Implementing and Delegated Regulations (Regulation (EU) 2020/688 and 2021/403). These EU regulations contain specific provisions to safeguard the health of bees located in the territory of the Union including safeguarding against tropilaelaps mites. The importation of honeybees into Ireland is allowed under these Regulations. There are no plans to introduce a temporary ban on the importation of bees.
To date, Tropilaelaps spp has not been reported in Ireland. Nevertheless, my Department is aware of the threat posed to the beekeeping sector by these pests. In light of this, my Department is assessing the additional risks posed to bees from these pests.
Bees moving to Ireland from another EU Member State must be notified to the Department at least 24 hours before the consignment’s arrival. These consignments must also be accompanied by a health certificate which has been issued by the Competent Authority in the Member State of origin.
Bees entering Ireland from a third country are subject to official controls before entry is permitted. In Ireland, my Department is the Competent Authority responsible for carrying out import controls in accordance Regulation EU 2017/625 on Official Controls.
Official controls on consignments of bees are carried out at Border Control Posts by Department staff. A consignment of honeybees or bumble bees may only enter Ireland through an approved Border Control Post that has been designated for entry of bees. Dublin Airport, Dublin Port and Rosslare port are the approved Border Control Posts in Ireland designated for entry of bees.
Consignments imported from third countries must be accompanied by the relevant health certificate, which conforms to the models laid down in Regulation (EU) 2021/404 and which is signed by an official veterinarian or inspector of the veterinary authority in the country of origin.
