I am aware that the market for beef from over 30 month cattle is currently weaker than for beef from under 30 month cattle. While there appears to be a general move within a number of outlets towards beef from younger cattle, the current price differential between over and under 30 month animals must be seen in the context of a dramatic drop in beef consumption generally during the past year. The measures taken at EU level are now having effect and the consumption losses are being regained. That said, there are, nevertheless, outlets for beef from over 30 month animals, particularly in continental European and Russia. In addition, beef from over 30 month cattle can be sold into the special purchase scheme and intervention. The quantity of beef currently being sold into the special purchase scheme is considerable and accounts for the vast bulk of the cows slaughtered in the country in recent weeks. I have made representations to Commissioner Fischler to extend the special purchase scheme which is due at the moment to end on 31 December 2001. As far as intervention is concerned, the quantity offered into intervention is entirely a matter for the beef processing industry. The European Commission has accepted the bulk of the beef offered into intervention by Irish processors this autumn.
