Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 29 Mar 2001

Vol. 533 No. 5

Written Answers. - Animal Health Regime.

Bernard J. Durkan

Question:

85 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the initiatives which he has taken at European Union level to enhance the status of European Union produced beef, lamb and pork; if he has satisfied himself that a rigid animal health regime is pursued in all European Union member states, including Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9405/01]

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

I am satisfied that the measures in place both at EU and national level are sufficient to ensure the highest possible standards for meat and meat products produced within the EU.

In relation to the animal health policies, intra-Community trade in live animals is governed by horizontal EU legislation requiring appropriate health precautions to be taken in member states. Similarly, third countries wishing to trade with European Union member states are required to meet certain animal health requirements and are subject to veterinary inspections by the Food and Veterinary Office of the European Commission. Animal health issues in EU member states and in third countries wishing to trade with the EU are monitored by the European Commission's Standing Veterinary Committee, which meets regularly and in which officials from my Department participate.

The animal health regimes have been the subject of intense discussion at the Council of Ministers in recent times, most recently because of the foot and mouth crisis. At these discussions, I have encouraged the European Commission and other member states to adopt the most stringent regimes for the protection of both livestock and consumers.