asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will ban the importation of bacon and pork from countries which have been affected by classical swine fever.
41.
Written Answers. - Swine Fever.
17.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will restrict the imports of pigmeat in view of the outbreak of classical swine fever disease as outlined in the up-to-date veterinary reports; and if he will outline the damage, if any, he envisages this problem will cause to the future of Irish exports of pigmeat.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 41 together.
Ireland is afforded special EC trade derogations under which we prohibit imports of live pigs and fresh, chilled or frozen pigmeat from member states which are either affected by or vaccinating against classical swine fever. Imports of certain uncooked lightly curred pigmeat products are permitted but are subject to stringent conditions. Such imports are only allowed under specific authorisations and each consignment is rigorously checked on its arrival into this country. These measures minimise the risk of importing disease thus safeguarding our continued access to export markets.