asked the Minister for Fisheries and Forestry if he is aware that mussels from Korea are being dumped on EEC markets at 45 pence per kilo less than the normal price; and the steps he proposes to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Korean Mussel Dumping.
4.
I am aware that problems have been caused recently by low-price imports of mussel products from third countries. This is a matter for resolution by the Community as a whole and the current review of the common organisation of the market for fishery products, including the provisions governing trade arrangements with third countries, presents an ideal opportunity to make appropriate adjustments to the Community's import regime in order to guarantee that fishery products will not be imported in a manner likely to disturb the balance of the Community market.
We were all aware of that but does the Minister intend ensuring that the reference price for mussels will be increased in the context of the EEC?
The problem of imports from third countries continues. The only permanent solution is to introduce a reference price for mussel products in the proposed EEC regulations on the common organisation of the marketing of fishery products. The Department are pressing for an extension of the list of products covered by reference prices to all key fishery products which are of commercial significance to Ireland and these include mussels. That is a continuing process. I might add that the Minister is in Brussels this week and that this subject is on the agenda.
Is the Minister not aware that the fishery talks in Brussels have broken down and that in these circumstances the Minister should be here today to answer the questions? Is the Minister aware of the importance of having a reference price for mussels?
The reference price question is one of continuing discussion.
But we want results.