Consequences of persistent violations by owner of animals

(1) Where there is evidence of residues of authorised substances or products of a level exceeding the maximum limit for residues, the Authority shall carry out an investigation on the farm of origin or departure, as applicable, to determine why the above limit was exceeded in accordance with the results of that investigation, and the Authority shall take all necessary measures to safeguard public health including prohibiting animals from leaving the farm concerned or animal products from leaving the farm or establishment concerned for a period determined by the Authority. (2) In the event of repeated infringements of maximum residue limits pursuant to this regulation when animals are placed on the market by a farmer or products are placed on the market by a farmer or a processing establishment, intensified checks on the animals and products from the farm and/or establishment in question shall be carried out by the Authority for a period of at least six months, and such products or carcasses may be impounded by the Authority pending the results of analysis of the samples. Any results showing that the maximum residue limit has been exceeded shall result in the carcasses or products concerned being declared unfit for human consumption.