UUP DAERA spokesperson Rosemary Barton MLA said:
“As we approach the summer months many people are turning their attention to a long-awaited break and many are choosing to stay within the UK because of the uncertainty that still prevails regarding travel to other countries.
“Once again concern has been raised about travelling with pets, particularly on the return journey from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, due to problems stemming from the Northern Ireland Protocol.
“While requirements that all pets are microchipped, are vaccinated against rabies and have had treatment against tape worms, together with a valid European pet passport have been postponed until 1st October, it is clear that a permanent solution is required.
“Ways must be found to provide reassurance for pet owners and protect them from an extra expense of approximately £200 per pet. They cannot be dependent on continued last minute derogations on the Protocol regulations. Many responsible owners today have their pets already microchipped, something that is encouraged particularly by local councils. The last case of rabies in the United Kingdom was in the 1920s. Is this medical intervention, which has implications for the over-vaccination of pets, necessary?
“Solutions must be found and people must have confidence that they can travel freely throughout the United Kingdom with their pets.”