Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 6 Dec 2000

Vol. 527 No. 4

Written Answers. - Bovine Diseases.

Paul Connaughton

Question:

127 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the reason an animal that strayed on to the farm of a person (details supplied) in County Galway over 18 months ago cannot be sold to a meat factory despite the fact that the animal was tested in the herdowner's last tuberculosis and brucellosis test; the further reason a permit cannot be issued to have the animal delivered directly from the farm to the factory; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28886/00]

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

Since the introduction of the cattle movement monitoring system the origin and identity of all bovine animals are verified against the central database before they are allowed to enter the food chain. The origin and identity of the animal in the case referred to by the Deputy have not yet been satisfactorily established. Thus the animal in question cannot be permitted to enter the food chain.