Vol. 485 No. 4
20 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the measures, if any, he has taken to ensure that the safety of Irish beef is emphasised to the public in the context of the latest BSE controversy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23324/97]
I am satisfied that the controls currently operated by my Department in relation to BSE are sufficient to reassure consumers both in Ireland and in the countries to which Irish beef is exported and I have used every possible opportunity to emphasise this point. In addition, the efficacy of these controls and the safety of Irish beef were referred to in a recent statement by the Minister for Health and Children in the context of the lastest UK findings on bone in beef. I will, of course, keep these controls under review on an ongoing basis, in conjunction with the Minister for Health and Children.
My Department and Bord Bia continue to use every opportunity to promote the sale of Irish beef.
