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Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 26 Feb 1998

Vol. 487 No. 8

Written Answers. - Beef Classification.

Brendan Howlin

Question:

13 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the plans, if any, his Department has made to introduce a beef carcase classification system based on modern technology in view of the fact that the beef industry is now market led; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5150/98]

Under EC rules beef carcases are classified in a standardised manner throughout the European Union on the basis of visual assessment by specially trained and qualified classification officers. The accuracy and consistency of classification is constantly monitored by regional supervisors, by the National Standards Panel and by the EU classification control committee.

In view of this, I believe that the current carcase classification is operating satisfactorily and is capable of meeting the needs of a market-led beef industry.

I am aware that research is being undertaken in a number of countries to apply modern technology to beef classification. However, the replacement of the current method of carcase classification by the new technology will only be considered when European Commission experts have carried out extensive comparative work with qualified classifiers to ensure a standard comparable to that which is currently being achieved.

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