Seán Power
Ceist:156 Mr. Power asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the efforts, if any, he has made to find new markets for Irish beef; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3597/00]
Vol. 514 No. 1
156 Mr. Power asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the efforts, if any, he has made to find new markets for Irish beef; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3597/00]
Following the BSE crisis, my Department has been involved in direct negotiations with the authorities in those traditionally important markets which had concerns about imports of beef from Ireland. These negotiations, with the assistance of both the Department of Foreign Affairs and Bord Bia, have secured unhindered access for Irish beef to worldwide markets. I am satisfied that the necessary conditions have been secured to enable Irish beef exporters to exploit all available market opportunities.