asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the consequences for this country in the event of the EEC embargo on beef from third countries being abolished.
31.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - EEC Beef Embargo.
30.
asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the steps he is taking, or proposes to take, to ensure that unrestricted beef imports to the EEC from third countries will not be permitted; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle I propose to take Questions Nos. 30 and 31 together.
So long as ample supplies of Community beef continue to be available, and especially while the need for intervention purchases continue, abolition of the ban on beef imports from third countries could have serious adverse effects on this country's export trade.
I emphasised this to the EEC Agricultural Commissioner during his recent visit here when he expressed the view that some relaxation of the ban, but not a very major one and not its total abolition, may have to be contemplated.
A review of the Community's beef import system generally forms part of the Commission's proposals at present under discussion for 1975-76 and I and my Department will of course do everything possible at council and committee meetings to ensure that an adequate system will be applied at all times to protect the interests of Community producers.
Is the Parliamentary Secretary aware that the EEC are proposing to negotiate for a supply of uranium from Australia and if these negotiations are successful it may be that Australian beef will have free access to the EEC market? Is he prepared to make a statement?
The Irish Minister holds firmly to the ban and argues against any relaxation whatsoever on the basis that it would be detrimental to the interests of Irish producers if the ban were removed or relaxed while the need for intervention purchases continues. The House and Deputy Callanan can be assured that the Minister is fully alive to the problem.
Is he prepared to use the veto if necessary?
That is a separate question.
That could possibly arise even though it may be a separate question. The Minister is very mindful of this matter.