Austin Deasy
Question:265 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will outline the progress, if any, which has been made in reopening beef and livestock export markets in the Middle East and North Africa.
Written Answers. - Export Markets.
The Iranian authorities agreed last November to reopen their market for Irish beef and this was confirmed at the first meeting of the joint commission between Ireland and Iran in March. Commercial negotiations are underway but have not reached agreement on price.
Following a visit by an Algerian veterinary delegation in January that market is now open to Irish beef, and sales are expected later this year.
In the meantime exports of beef to other important markets such as Egypt and Saudi Arabia are proceeding steadily.
As regards livestock the most important potential market is Libya. I would hope that the recent shipment of beef to that country will be followed by agreement on the resumption of the cattle trade.