asked the Minister for Health if, in view of the danger of contracting brucellosis from unpasteurised milk, he will make it compulsory for all participants in the farm holiday scheme to use only pasteurised milk.
Written Answers. - Brucellosis from Unpasteurised Milk.
39.
I do not have power which would enable me to do as the Deputy asks. My powers in relation to the pasteurisation of milk derive from the Milk and Dairies Act, 1935 and extend only to the making of Special Designation Orders. These orders relate to the prohibition on the sale of raw milk in the areas to which they apply. Certain areas have not applied for such orders and I am using every means at my disposal to encourage them to do so. Recent recommendations have been made by the Hygiene Advisory Council as regards the use of unpasteurised milk in hotels and guesthouses including the installation of their own pasteurisation units. Bord Fáilte have approached all farm proprietors listed by them and requested that pasteurised milk only be used. Consideration is at present being given to the provision of a campaign by the Health Education Bureau in this area.