29 Oct Press Statement

Rásaíocht Con Éireann is fully committed in supporting the National and International Authorities investigate the potential breaches of EU Animal Welfare and Transport Regulations which led to the tragic deaths of 11 Greyhounds in Cherbourg, France.

Wednesday 29th October 2014

Rásaíocht Con Éireann are deeply shocked and horrified by recent news of the discovery of greyhound bodies in a greyhound transporter in Cherbourg, France. We understand from initial investigations that Gendarmes Maritimes and Port Surveillance Platoon at Cherbourg discovered 11 greyhounds which had tragically died due to suffocation in transit.

In accordance with Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005- No animal of any species must be transported unless it is fit for the intended journey and all animals must be transported in conditions guaranteed not to cause them injury or unnecessary suffering. In addition the transporter must ensure that all necessary arrangements are made in advance to minimise the length of the journey and meet all of the animals’ needs during the journey.

In conjunction with its own investigative procedures, Rásaíocht Con Éireann will also be providing every possible assistance to the French Maritime Authorities, the Department of Agriculture and any other relevant national authorities, to determine whether there has been a breach of the EU Animal Welfare Regulations and also to ascertain why a routine operation involving the commercial transportation of greyhounds resulted in such suffering and unexpected mortality. Bord na gCon in collaboration with the relevant authorities will endeavour to ensure that all necessary measures are taken to prosecute those responsible

At present Rásaíocht Con Éireann is providing a EU Travel and Pet Passport Service in recognition of European Union regulations (Council Directive 92/65/EEC Balai Directive) for pet travel and identification requirements for the commercial movement of dogs. This successful initiative reaffirms our commitment to the Greyhound Industry and ensuring that utmost Animal Health and Welfare responsibilities are met when transporting animals abroad. We are deeply regretful that such a tragedy has taken place at a time when such positive welfare developments within the industry are taking place.