Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 5 Dec 2000

Vol. 527 No. 3

Written Answers. - Border Inspection Posts.

Dick Spring

Question:

68 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development if he will ask for a review of the border inspection posts following the strong criticisms made in a European Commission report earlier in 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28463/00]

Dick Spring

Question:

94 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development further to Parliamentary Question No. 106 of 29 June 2000, the position with regard to his discussions with port and airport authorities concerning border inspection posts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28462/00]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 68 and 94 together.

The provision of appropriate facilities for the inspection and storage of goods requires detailed planning, the assistance of the Office of Public Works, the mutual agreement of all concerned, including the food and veterinary office, and compliance with the statutory planning requirements. Discussions between officials of my Department and the relevant portal and airport authorities on the provision of facilities appropriate to each border inspection post are ongoing. Furthermore, liaison with the food and veterinary office of the European Commission is continuing with a view to ensuring that proposed changes to facilities will meet with their approval.