asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he is aware that the chemical hexachlorobenzene has been found in high concentration in cattle in several areas of the USA; if this chemical is used as a fungicide in this country and, if so, if it is proposed to take any steps to prevent Irish animals from being affected.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Use of Chemical.
5.
My Department have had no report of any problem arising from high concentration of hexachlorobenzene in cattle in the USA. So far as the Department are aware, the chemical is not used as a fungicide on agricultural crops in this country. The extent to which it might be used on animals here would be very small. Certainly no clinical problem connected with its use on animals has ever been encountered. In the circumstances I do not consider that any steps to protect Irish animals from its effects are called for.
Will the Minister keep this matter under observation?
Apparently the usual practice is for the US Veterinary Department to inform the Veterinary Department here of any matters such as have been referred to by the Deputy in his question. They have not made any contact regarding this drug.
We have had reports of unlicensed beef coming in here. Perhaps the problem could arise as a result of illegal imports?
We are doing all we can to prevent illegal imports but that is a different day's work.