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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 25 May 1999

Vol. 505 No. 3

Written Answers. - Food Industry.

Mary Coughlan

Question:

36 Ms Coughlan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the plans, if any, in place regarding the future role of quality assurance schemes for Irish food; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13621/99]

I believe that quality assurance schemes will continue to play a vital role in the future of our food industry. The demands of the marketplace are such that there is now universal recognition of the importance of quality assurance schemes as integral and important components of the entire food chain. This philosophy is underscored in the recent report of the food industry development group which indicated that potential for maximisation of the contribution of the food industry to the economy is dependent upon attention to competitiveness and market orientation and that development must be underpinned by attention to food safety, quality standards and quality assurance.

Indeed, quality assurance was one of the significant topics dealt with at the world meat congress, hosted by An Bord Bia in Dublin as recently as last week. That conference was reminded of the necessity of having quality assurance schemes and accreditation measures that comply with best international practice. In this regard, I should say that the quality assurance schemes currently in operation by An Bord Bia and An Bord Glas and new schemes in preparation are constantly monitored to ensure that they continue to match the highest standard.

My own Department's national beef assurance scheme, for which incidentally, the necessary legislation is at an advanced stage, must for example, as is the case in all claims made in respect of beef, whether in relation to origin, quality assurance or production methods, satisfy the provisions of the beef labelling scheme. This scheme requires that any such claims are fully authenticated and independently verified.

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