Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 15 Feb 2001

Vol. 530 No. 5

Written Answers. - Beef Prices.

David Stanton

Question:

61 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the most recent prices being offered for beef cattle destined for the market place; his plans to ensure that the market does not collapse; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4253/01]

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

The current prices for Irish cattle slaughtered for the commercial market and prices which obtained at the same time last year are as follows:

	2001	2000
Steers (R3)	90p/lb	91p/lb
Heifers (R3)	89p/lb	87p/lb
Cows (04)	64p/lb	62p/lb

The introduction of the purchase for destruction scheme, which is to remain in place until 30 June, has provided very substantial support to the beef market since its introduction on 8 January. It is my intention to do everything possible however to facilitate the recovery of commercial markets. I have been pressing Commissioner Fischler for an increase in export refunds in order to increase exports to third countries. In addition, my Department is using all of the technical and diplomatic resources available to secure the re-opening of third country markets, such as Egypt, which have imposed bans on imports of beef from the European Union because of the current BSE situation. I believe that a successful outcome to these efforts would ensure that cattle prices in Ireland remain at reasonable levels.

Question No. 62 answered with Question No. 29.