ENG-2010 — Page 242

196 Food Safety, Environmental Hygiene, Agriculture and Fisheries

at its seven wholesale markets. During the year, the Castle Peak Wholesale Fish Market which had operated at a temporary site for some 40 years was relocated permanently to a new joint-user complex in Area 44, Tuen Mun, to provide modernised marine fish wholesaling facilities and services to the fishermen and fish traders based in Tuen Mun. Revenue comes from commissions from fish sales and from fees charged for the use of the market facilities. Surplus earnings are channelled back to the fisheries industry by way of providing low-interest loans to fishermen, improving market services and facilities and providing training grants and scholarships for the fishermen and their children. During the year, some 47 700 tonnes of marine fish valued at $1.6 billion were sold through the organisation. The organisation continues to develop quality fish products at its processing centre to help promote local products.

Control of Animal Diseases

As Hong Kong's inspection and quarantine authority for animals, the AFCD regulates cross-boundary animal movements to prevent the animal diseases from entering the city. The AFCD also assesses the risk of disease in imported animals and animal products on the basis of their species, intended use and disease status of the place of origin. The AFCD explains Hong Kong's import requirements to overseas veterinary authorities when necessary.

In 2010, more than 5 500 permits were issued for animal imports. The animals included dogs, cats, horses, reptiles, birds, zoo animals and food animals such as pigs and cattle.

Quarantine Detector Dog Programme

The Quarantine Detector Dog Programme was introduced to help combat illegal importation of animals. The dogs can detect live mammals, birds, reptiles and animal products hidden in luggage or under layers of clothing. These dogs are deployed to various boundary control points including Lok Ma Chau, Shenzhen Bay and the Hong Kong International Airport. In 2010, more than 279 000 travellers, 370 vehicles and 14 000 parcels were screened.

Animal Management

The AFCD adopts various animal management measures to control animal diseases, regulate the selling of animals, and promote respect and care for animals.

Rabies is controlled effectively in Hong Kong, which has been rabies-free since the 1980s. In 2010, some 59 300 dogs were licensed and vaccinated against rabies. About 10 600 dogs and 4 300 cats were brought to the AFCD Animal Management Centres during the year. Most were strays but some were surrendered by their owners. The AFCD runs a re-homing service for the healthy and well-tempered ones.

All pet shops selling animals must be licensed by the AFCD which inspects these shops regularly to ensure that they do not contravene any of the licence conditions. Pet shops are also now required to obtain dogs for sale only from approved sources.