Vol. 573 No. 4
162 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has had recent discussions with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland with respect to the import of non-EU beef into Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25468/03]
We are seriously concerned at recent reports that imported meat is being labelled as Irish beef. Discussions have taken place recently between our Department and the Food Safety Authority of Ireland regarding the enforcement of the beef labelling regulations particularly in relation to imported beef. The enforcement of these regulations is the responsibility of that authority. With regard to the beef slaughtering and cutting plants under the control of our Department, we have asked the Department's veterinary inspectorate to examine the procedures in place and ensure full compliance with labelling requirements.
