Under Council Regulation (EC) No 1/2005 on the welfare of animals during transport, it is a legal requirement for drivers and attendants who transport farm livestock and horses over 65 km to have a Certificate of Competence. There are now two ways to attain this Certificate, either through the National Proficiency Training Council (NPTC) or through An Teagasc, the Agriculture and Food Development Authority in the South.
NPTC assessment is by means of a short on-line theory test and, for those involved in long journeys, an additional short practical assessment which covers both driving and animal handling skills. The theory test is taken at an NPTC Assessment Centre in Antrim, with the practical assessment arranged between the individual and the NPTC assessor at a mutually suitable time and location. Details of how to apply are available by contacting NPTC on 012 2879 1242.
While, there is no requirement for formal training prior to undertaking the NPTC assessment, the Road Haulage Association (RHA) can provide educational talks on the Regulation. Further details are available by telephone by contacting 0131 472 4180.
Certification can also be undertaken through An Teagasc, which is delivering the training and assessment at its network of colleges, such as at Ballyhaise in Co Cavan. Courses last one day, and assessment is carried out at the end of the course.
The availability of training and assessment in the South for locally based transporters will benefit transporters in border areas who carry out aspects of their business in the South.
Notes to Editors:
- EU Regulation 1/2005 on the Welfare of Animals During Transport came into force across Member States in January 2007. Since January 2008 there has also been a requirement for transporters of farm livestock and horses to demonstrate competency.
- Under the National Proficiency Training Council assessment programme, competency is tested by means of a two part process involving a short on-line theory test and, for those involved in long journeys, an additional short practical assessment. While there is no requirement for formal training, prior to assessment of competency, educational talks are provided by the Road Haulage Association (RHA). The on-line assessment will normally be taken at the NPTC assessment centre at CAFRE, Greenmount Campus, Co Antrim. Practical assessments will then be arranged between you and the assessor at a mutually suitable time and location. Further details on the content of the on-line assessment are also available via the NPTC website
. - Details are available online or by telephone on 00353 49433 81084. Further details on the requirements under EU 1/2005 are available on the DARD website.
- All media enquiries to DARD Press Office, tel: 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
