The Equine Viral Arteritis Order 1995

Veterinary inquiry as to the existence of disease

6.—(1) In order to ascertain whether or not the disease or the virus exists or has within 56 days existed in a horse, a veterinary inspector may carry out such inquiries, examinations and tests and take such samples as may be necessary for that purpose.

(2) Where the owner or person in charge of a stallion has made a written request to the Divisional Veterinary Officer and the Divisional Veterinary Officer has given his consent, a veterinary inspector may postpone the exercise of any of the powers under paragraph (1) above in respect of that stallion until such time as specified by the Divisional Veterinary Officer.

(3) A veterinary inspector may mark or cause to be marked for identification purposes any horse in relation to which any of the powers under paragraphs (1) or (2) above have been exercised.

(4) The owner or person in charge of the horse or any person in his employment shall provide such information and render such reasonable assistance to a veterinary inspector as may be required for the purposes of the inquiry.

(5) If, on completion of the inquiry, the veterinary inspector is of the opinion that the disease or the virus exists or has within 56 days existed in a stallion, his opinion to that effect shall be subject to confirmation by the Chief Veterinary Officer or by a person authorised by him.