Vol. 482 No. 8
60 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food whether it is a fact that the grades of cattle carcases at meat export plants are declining; his views on whether this is a cause for concern; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19450/97]
An examination of classification figures from 1994, 1995, 1996 and 1997 shows a drop in the percentage of better conformed, class "U" carcases and a corresponding increase in the poorer conformed "O" and "P" classes. There has also been an increase in the percentage of animals in the upper fat classes, namely "4H" and "5" and a corresponding drop in the lower fat classes "3" and "4L". These developments are due in part to the decline in live exports and the pricing policy operated at meat plants. My Department is in discussion with the industry on how best to improve overall quality of cattle. The recently established Irish Cattle Breeding Federation will also focus on this issue.
