After 1992, some changes will occur in the plant health controls relating to trade in plants and plant products between EC member states in order to reflect the process of completing the Internal Market. The terms of the new plant health regime are still under discussion at Community working party level so it is not possible to give the final position on new procedures. The general structure of the proposals is that the new system is designed to facilitate free movement of healthy plant material, including forest plants and timber, throughout the Community without special inspection at national boundaries. More detailed inspections and controls will take place at the point of production. The system of plant health certificates will be replaced by an alternative system of plant passports. All source nurseries and areas of plant production, such as forests, will be officially registered so that they can be inspected and controlled by the national plant protection service, and be authorised to issue plant passports.
Recognition is made in the proposal for the designation of protected zones which are free of particular plant diseases and pests. Member states will be able to require additional specific measures to prevent the introduction of those organisms on material coming into such zones from other member states.
There will also be provision for checking such material on entry to ensure freedom from the particular pests and diseases. The zones have not yet been defined but it is intended that the provisions be used by this State to protect its high plant health status, inclusive of forest plantations. My Department have maintained close liaison with the Northern Ireland ministry in relation to plant health matters of joint interest. The possibility of a joint protected zone for the whole island would require that both administrations could work out an acceptable procedure. This matter will, of course, continue to be examined.
The development of free trade is bound to increase the possibilities of plant-health risk. However, I am satisfied that a vigilant operation of the new system will minimise risk and provide a continuing safeguard against the introduction of new diseases and pests into this country.
