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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 7 Oct 1997

Vol. 481 No. 1

Written Answers. - Beef Labelling.

Michael Ring

Question:

119 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the steps, if any, his Department has taken to prepare for the EU Commission's proposals to introduce compulsory labelling of beef; if he will introduce compulsory labelling and traceability in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15456/97]

The EU regulation on the labelling of beef which was adopted by the Agriculture Council last March, provides, in principle, for the labelling of beef on an optional basis until 31 December 1999. While the regulation provides for the compulsory labelling of origin from 1 January 2000, it also permits member states to waive the requirement in respect of beef sold on their own territory. I will decide in light of experience whether to avail of this waiver.

In the interim, the EU regulation permits member states with a well developed cattle identification and registration system to impose a compulsory labelling system in respect of beef derived from cattle which have been born, reared and slaughtered on their own territory. It is not my intention to implement this provision. I am satisfied that the introduction of a cattle movement monitoring system will ensure that the Irish beef industry will be in a strong position to comply with a compulsory labelling system from 1 January 2000.

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