12/01/2016

Customs Crackdown On Illegal Exportation Of Animals

Customs Officials at Dublin Port have intercepted a consignment of puppies in the process of being illegally exported to the UK, in a joint operation with the Department of Agriculture.

The animals involved were being transported in an unapproved vehicle with very poor ventilation and had no accompanying paper work, a statement from the Department of Agriculture said.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Mr Simon Coveney, confirmed that his own officials and customs officers had been engaged in a joint operation in recent times at ports with a view to stamping out this illegal trade.

The Minister said: "I would like to thank custom officials and my own officials for their efforts in bring about this seizure."

He also thanked the DSPCA for their assistance in taking care of the seized animals.

Minister Coveney added that European Union rules regulating movement of dogs and pups must be adhered to in all circumstances. The Minister noted that pups and dogs exiting the country must be accompanied by a pet passport to show that they are identified by a microchip and are immunised against rabies. 

Dogs being moved out of the country for sale or change of ownership must be accompanied by an official health certificate showing that they come from a holding or business registered with the Department and that these holdings are not subject to any movement ban on animal health grounds.

(MH/JP)

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