Vol. 524 No. 6
132 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if, in view of his recent meeting with the Egyptian ambassador, he will state the steps he is taking to protect Ireland's export beef market with Egypt; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23413/00]
I am very conscious of the fact that Egypt is Ireland's largest beef export market. Indeed, earlier this year I visited the Cairo Food Fair and availed of the opportunity to meet with both the Egyptian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Agriculture, Dr. Youseff Waly and the Minister for Economy and Foreign Trade, Dr. Youseff Boutros-Ghali. The discussions centred on the ongoing trade between Ireland and Egypt, particularly Irish exports of beef and the potential to increase and develop the excellent relationship between the two countries. I availed of the opportunity to outline to the Egyptian Government the very high standards of food safety and quality in place in Ireland and the guarantees that our control and inspection systems can offer the Egyptian consumer. I availed of a recent opportunity to meet with the Egyptian ambassador to Ireland to further these contacts.
Ultimately, the export of beef is a matter for the industry itself and it is the case that in relation to Egypt, Irish companies, aided by the promotion endeavours of Bord Bia, must be commended for their successes in the market up to now. I have no reason to believe that the joint efforts of all concerned will be any less successful in the future.
