Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 25 Nov 1999

Vol. 511 No. 5

Written Answers. - Fisheries Protection.

Michael Ring

Question:

27 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the contact, if any, made with the French authorities regarding the epidemiological report on the alleged outbreak of illness involving Irish mussels in view of the commitment by the Minister of State on 20 October 1999. [24660/99]

Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources (Dr. Woods)

Officials of my Department have been in contact with the French authorities to obtain clarification on certain aspects of the epidemiological report received from France about two outbreaks of illness reportedly associated with the consumption of mussels exported from Ireland. These contacts are continuing and I expect the clarifications requested to be supplied shortly.

In the meantime, and in view of the critical importance for the shellfish industry of demonstrable adherence to the highest standards of food safety, my Department is working with other pub lic bodies and the industry on the development of an upgraded system for biotoxins monitoring and testing. In addition, Bord Iascaigh Mhara has been asked to finalise, as soon as possible, proposals for a total quality management system for the processed rope mussel industry.