Thomas P. Broughan
Question:20 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position regarding the national beef assurance scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3880/03]
Written Answers. - Beef Quality Assurance Scheme.
Olwyn Enright
Question:29 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his plans to amend the national beef assurance scheme. [3966/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 20 and 29 together.
The position in relation to the national beef assurance scheme is that the traceability elements have been fully operational since 1 January 2000. It was envisaged that other elements of the scheme, in particular the inspection and approval of farms, would be undertaken last year in conjunction with the annual round of testing. To this end, detailed discussions took place with the veterinary and farming representative organisations over a long period and a protocol for the conduct of the inspections was agreed. However, only a small number of inspections took place because of resistance to implementation of the scheme mainly by veterinarians whose union is seeking a centralised payment system for the costs involved.
The legislation establishing the national beef assurance scheme clearly provides that the costs of securing a certificate of approval are the responsibility of the applicant. The Exchequer has already invested almost €50 million in developing and maintaining the traceability sys tem that underpins the scheme and costs will continue to be incurred under this heading. The scheme is an important element in the drive to maintain and increase marketplace in a difficult sector and I am disappointed about the impasse that has developed in relation to its implementation. Discussions will continue with the veterinary representative body and the farming organisations with a view to resolution at an early date. I do not have plans at present to amend the national beef assurance scheme. However, I am examining the possibilities for greater integration between the inspection process under the Bord Bia beef quality assurance scheme and the national scheme.