Vol. 503 No. 7
42 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position regarding the re-opening of the live cattle trade with eastern markets, including Libya; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11038/99]
62 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the steps, if any, he is taking to have third country markets opened for live cattle from Ireland; and if he will give an assurance that there will be more outlets in 1999 than 1998. [11013/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 42 and 62 together.
Libya and Egypt are the only traditional markets for live cattle which are not at present importing cattle from Ireland. The nature of the Egyptian market has changed for Ireland. In 1998, Egypt became the largest market for Irish beef accepting the equivalent of over 300,000 head of cattle. As regards Libya, agreement was reached with a Libyan Government delegation last July last providing for the re-opening of the Libyan market for Irish cattle and beef on the basis of agreed veterinary health conditions and terms of contracts. This agreement was the culmination of extensive contacts with the Libyan authorities since early 1997. The Libyan Government, through the General Peoples Committee, formally cleared the agreement before the end of September and written confirmation to this effect was received.
Although the Libyan authorities indicated their wish to have the agreement implemented immediately, there have been delays in the conclusion of contracts for Irish cattle. These delays are of serious concern both to myself and the Government. Ongoing contact is being maintained with the Libyan authorities, through every possible channel, with a view to ensuring that the July agreement is implemented in practice. Our position is that an official agreement has been reached with the Libyan authorities and that it should be honoured.
Exports of live cattle from Ireland are continuing at significant levels. To date exports of almost 100,000 head have been reached which is a major increase on the level of 34,469 head exported in the same period in 1998. Live cattle exports in 1998 had recorded a major increase on 1997.
