§ Mrs. Iris RobinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what the maximum journey limit is for the transportation of live animals from Northern Ireland. [156115]
§ Mr. PearsonIn accordance with EU requirements journey limits are !et in terms of time periods rather than distance and these are set at different levels for different ages and species of animals and birds in line with their differing physiological needs.
For horses, cattle, sheep, goats and pigs, journey times may not normally exceed eight hours but this may be extended if the vehicle meets a range of additional welfare standards relating to feed, bedding, ventilation, inspection and water supply. In such circumstances:
(a) Horses (except registered horses) may be transported for a maximum of 24 hours provided that they are given water and, if necessary, fed every eight hours;(b) Pigs may be transported for a maximum of 24 hours provided that they have continuous access to water;(c) Unweaned calves lambs, kids, piglets and foals which are still on a milk diet may be transported for a maximum of nine hours after which they must be given a rest period of one hour in which they are given liquid and, if necessary, fed. After this rest period they ma' be transported again for another nine hours; and(d) Cattle, sheep and goats may be transported for a maximum of 14 hours after which they must be given a rest period of one hour in which they are fed and watered. After this rest period they may be transported again for another 14 hours.Poultry, domestic birds and domestic rabbits may not be transported or more than 12 hours and newly hatched chicks for not more than 24 hours unless after such time food and water are provided.