asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries if there is any danger that horsement could be offered for sale in this country at retail level.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sale of Horsemeat.
45.
Horsemeat may be offered for sale in this country at retail level subject to the provisions of the Sale of Horseflesh Regulation Act, 1889. This Act is administered by the local authorities and it provides, inter alia, that over or upon premises in which horseflesh is sold, offered, exposed or kept for sale as human food a notice to that effect must be prominently displayed at all times.
Could the Minister say what form of protection he has? Has he inspectors making routine visits? Would it be possible for horsemeat to be sold under the guise of beef?
That could happen, but there are penalties for those who sell it under disguise.
Does the Minister inspect?
Yes. I understand that the only place in which it is sold is Limerick. I do not know whether or not it was Deputy Herbert made that arrangement.
Is the Minister aware that horsemeat was sold retail in Phibsboro three or four years ago?
That was before my time.
And it still is.
It was sold openly in Phibsboro.
And still is.