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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 30 Sep 1997

Vol. 480 No. 6

Written Answers - Beef Exports Ban.

Willie Penrose

Question:

43 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the contact, if any, he has had with the Russian authorities to ensure that the ban on the seven remaining blacklisted beef-producing counties is lifted. [14742/97]

I am in regular contact with the Minister for Agriculture and Food in relation to protecting the interests of the Irish beef industry in foreign markets and my Department, together with the Irish Embassy in Moscow, works closely in support of the Department of Agriculture and Food and An Bord Bia in their efforts to ensure continued access for Irish beef to the Russian market.

As the Deputy knows, the Russian Deputy Minister for Agriculture, Mr. Scherback, recently visited Ireland accompanied by a senior Russian veterinary official. Following technical discussions with Irish officials, the Minister for Agriculture and Food announced on 18 September that the Russian authorities had agreed to lift the ban on beef from Wexford and that there would be a further review of the situation regarding BSE next January. This is a welcome development and represents the first easing of the restrictions which have been in place since November 1996. Like the Minister for Agriculture and Food I hope the process of lifting county restrictions once begun, will continue when the current arrangements come up for review next January.

In consultation with the Minister for Agriculture and Food I will take any action that might prove useful in ensuring progress with the removal of the remaining counties, including contacts with the appropriate Russian authorities whether in person or through the embassy in Moscow.

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