asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if he is aware that regulations covering the code-marking of eggs are being ignored by packers.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Code-Marking of Eggs.
198.
I presume that the Deputy refers to the marking of the weekly code number on small packages of eggs to indicate the week in which the eggs were packed. This code number is now being shown by most of our packers and all possible steps are being taken to ensure full compliance with this requirement.
Could the Minister indicate what steps have been taken, because I have received several complaints from Dublin housewives that they cannot find this mark on several of these pre-packed eggs.
From the brief I have I understand the Consumers Association of Ireland have reported a small number of instances where pre-packed eggs bore a code number of a few weeks past. This is being followed up. There was an understanding that this system was to be brought in gradually and it is being pursued now fairly actively.
Will there be prosecutions in the case of a persistent defaulter?
That is a separate question.
I just cannot say what final action will be taken, but it is being actively pursued at the present time. Time has to be given to people to become accustomed to all this.
It worked before. I cannot see why it cannot be brought in again.