Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 11 Feb 1997

Vol. 474 No. 6

Written Answers. - Shellfish Exports.

Tony Killeen

Question:

51 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for the Marine the position regarding the export of shellfish to the United States; if his attention has been drawn to any difficulties in this regard; and the action, if any, being taken. [1966/97]

Tony Killeen

Question:

307 Mr. Killeen asked the Minister for the Marine the restrictions, if any, which apply to the export of shellfish to the United States of America; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3814/97]

Minister for the Marine (Mr. Barrett)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 51 and 307 together.

The food and drugs administration (FDA) of the United States operates stringent regulations governing the importation of shellfish. Imports of live molluscs are not permitted under US rules and this poses an obvious market constraint for Irish and other producers.

The EU and the US are currently engaged in bilateral discussions on harmonising classification systems for shellfish production. An equivalence agreement would help to open the door to Irish shellfish exports to the US.

If the Deputy wishes to bring any specific difficulties in this area to my attention, Department officials will be glad to assist.