AQW 9779/22-27

Mrs Diane Dodds
Democratic Unionist Party
Upper Bann

Tabled Date: 10/04/2024
Answered On Date: 24/04/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the current negotiations that are taking place between the UK and the EU on the issue of veterinary medicines moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland in light of the end of the grace period in December 2025; and (ii) the extent to which his Department is involved in these negotiations.

Answer:

The current grace period was granted on condition that the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), an agency of DEFRA and the relevant UK competent authority, complies with measures in a joint EU/UK Action plan. This action plan is a matter for the UK Government.

DAERA Officials meet with VMD and DEFRA officials on a regular basis to highlight the relevant impacts and risks involved with any change to the supply of Veterinary Medicines to Northern Ireland.

The movement of veterinary medicines from Great Britain to Northern Ireland is now subject to the direction and control of the Secretary of State as provided for in regulation 3 of the Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024.