Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 5 Feb 1997

Vol. 474 No. 4

Written Answers. - Beef Exports to Egypt.

Mary Harney

Question:

58 Miss Harney asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry if he will report on the discussions between his Department and the delegation of Egyptian vets who visited Ireland following the imposition of the ban on live shipments of Irish cattle; the follow-up action, if any, which has been taken by him; the way in which he intends to secure a re-opening of the Egyptian market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3090/97]

Brendan Smith

Question:

154 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the proposals, if any, he has to have the Egyptian market re-opened for live cattle exports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3285/97]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry (Mr. Yates)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 58 and 154 together.

In early January, Egypt banned the importation of live cattle from Ireland and a number of other countries for a period of six months. They also introduced new veterinary certification requirements in respect of boneless beef. Following representations made to the Egyptian authorities at the highest level, a veterinary delegation visited Ireland late last month to examine the situation on the ground. During their visit the delegation conducted a detailed review of our control arrangements. They expressed their satisfaction with the stringency of the measures which we have taken to combat BSE, the rigour of our control system and the contamination free status of our beef. They indicated, however, that they were purely an advisory body and that the authorities in Cairo would make the final decision.

The current position is that the Egyptian authorities are still considering the report of the veterinary delegation. I am monitoring the situation very closely and I am pressing for an early and favourable decision.