Michael Ring
Question:95 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has carried out a full investigation in relation to imported lambs as requested by sheep farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25252/98]
Written Answers - Lamb Imports.
Michael Ring
Question:96 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his Department's estimates based on ewe numbers and lamb output of the number of lambs imported from Northern Ireland and Great Britain. [25253/98]
I propose answering Questions Nos. 95 and 96 together.
The position as regards lamb imports, is that as a member of the European Union, Ireland is part of a free trade area in which it is not possible to legally prohibit, restrict or inhibit the trade of lambs from another member state. Imported animals must be accompanied by appropriate health certification. Under bilateral arrangements trade to and from Northern Ireland does not, however, require health certification.
All sheep presented for slaughter at an export approved plant are subject to the supervision and control of the Department veterinary office staff. I have satisfied myself that the veterinary inspectorate at the plants are fully discharging their responsibilities in this regard and that all the legal requirements regarding the health status and freedom from disease of these animals are being met.
As well as being a significant exporter of beef and dairy products, Ireland exports three out of every four lambs produced in this country. Therefore it would not be in our long-term interest to attempt to impose any unilateral measures to restrict trade in any agricultural commodity. At the same time, experience has shown the need for, and the value of, long-term supply arrangement between producers and processors where emphasis on regular supply and quality of product should be of benefit to the sector as a whole.
As far as the level of imports is concerned, it is not possible to give a precise estimate of the number of lambs imported from the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland. However it would appear on the basis of ewe numbers and lamb output in this country that imports account for less than 5 per cent of total slaughterings for Ireland.