Vol. 515 No. 1
101 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the plans, if any, he has for quality assurance schemes for sheep, pork and poultry production; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5451/00]
In conjunction with An Bord Bia, the pigmeat sector has developed a strict code of practice to ensure that the quality of their product is of the highest standard. This code of practice is set out clearly in the pigmeat quality assurance scheme, which in addition to laying down strict guidelines for producers and processors, outlines the ways in which these can be achieved. Those who achieve the high standards required are granted membership of the scheme and are awarded the quality assured mark, which is visible proof of their commitment to quality. The scheme offers customers and consumers of Irish pigmeat assurances about the traceability, safety and integrity of the product.
Following an approach from the poultry industry, An Bord Bia is currently devising a quality assurance scheme for poultry. It has established a technical committee, comprising interested parties, and this committee is working towards finalising a scheme in the quickest possible time.
