Vol. 481 No. 1
33 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of prosecutions taken in the courts within the past 12 months for the use of angel dust or other illegal growth promoters; the number of convictions secured; if he has satisfied himself with the progress in stamping out the use of these substances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15403/97]
Taking the 12 month period ending on 26 September 1997, 91 prosecutions for offences relating to illegal use of growth promoters were dealt with by the courts. In all but two of these cases, convictions were secured.
Monitoring carried out by my Department indicates that the vigorous enforcement policies pursued have contributed to a significant decline in the use of such substances. Since 1993, the level of positives, which then stood at slightly over 4 per cent, has declined progressively to a level of 0.05 per cent during the first half of 1997.
While I am satisfied that significant progress has been achieved, there can, of course, be no room for complacency in regard to this area. My Department will continue to monitor the ongoing situation and where any abuses are detected, the full rigours of the law will continue to be applied in the interests of consumer safety and the food industry.
