603. Deputy Paul Lawless asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if guidance exists for inspectors dealing with consignments of perishable goods where a replacement phytosanitary certificate has been issued and is in transit, but the original document has not yet arrived; and if he will provide details of any discretionary arrangements available in such circumstances. [52983/26]

Rules regarding the import of consignments from third countries are set out in EU Plant Health and Official Controls legislation. Import controls are carried out by Inspectors who are trained and familiar with these requirements.

Operational issues are kept under ongoing review.