I propose to take Questions Nos. 120, 123 and 124 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 ani mals 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 inspec torate 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. There fore, 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 arrange ments between producers and processors where emphasis on regular supply and quality of prod uct should be of benefit to the sector as a whole.