Vol. 504 No. 2
162 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his views on whether the live cattle trade with Egypt will reopen in view of his recent visit; when this will happen; and the arguments being put forward by the Egyptians as to the reason trade in live cattle between Ireland and Egypt remains closed. [11653/99]
Detailed proposals for a trial shipment of live cattle were submitted to the Egyptian authorities in late 1997 but these proposals were not activated by them because of concerns in regard to their internal controls on specified offals. Despite considerable contacts and discussions they have not altered their position. In the meantime the nature of the Egyptian market has changed for Ireland. In 1998, Egypt became the largest market for Irish beef importing 120,000 tonnes of beef, which is the equivalent of over 350,000 head of cattle. Exports in the first three months of this year have been maintained at the same level as last year. Regular contact with the Egyptian authorities is essential in view of the importance of the market and my recent visit to the Cairo food fair and my meetings with the Egyptian Minister for Agriculture and the Minister for Trade and Supply were part of this process.
