Vol. 494 No. 4
90 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the steps, if any, taken to prevent a recurrence of the outbreaks of salmonella poisoning experienced during the summer months arising from contaminated eggs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18417/98]
The recent outbreaks of salmonella poisoning were the cause of grave concern. Where raw eggs were found to be the source of the poisoning every effort was made to trace those eggs. In those cases where the origin of the eggs was traced they were found to have been produced in Northern Ireland.
Following the outbreaks, my Department held meetings with the Department of Agriculture for Northern Ireland to discuss safety measures for eggs and in particular to seek assurances that exports of eggs to this jurisdiction would only be allowed from flocks that are free of salmonella enteritidis and salmonella typhimurium.
In addition my Department has consulted with representatives of the major retailers, caterers and hoteliers to advise them on sensible practices with regard to their sourcing of eggs, traceability and guarantees on the laying flocks of origin. This work has complemented the work of the Food Safety Authority in advising the consumer on the safety of eggs. Close liaison has been maintained with the Food Safety Authority on this issue.
It should not be forgotten that Ireland has one of the best track records for salmonella in the European Union. This country's controls exceed those required under EU law and Ireland is one of only four member states with approved national plans for salmonella.
