Vol. 395 No. 7
29 Mr. Spring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will give an up-to-date progress report on the investigations carried out by his Department into irregularies in the beef processing industry; whether any prosecutions have been initiated or are expected in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
36 Tomás Mac Giolla asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if any deadline has been set for the completion of the consultations with the European Commission to discuss the outcome of sampling operations in relation to irregularities in the meat industry and the possible level of penalties to be imposed; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
I propose to take Questions Nos. 29 and 36 together.
The findings of the investigations of beef held under the 1988 aids to private storage scheme are being discussed with the Commission of the European Communities at present. No deadlines have been set for the completion of these consultations. In the circumstances it would not be appropriate for me to comment further on the matter at this time. I would, however, like to emphasise again to the House that where subsidies have already been paid the sums involved are secured by irrevocable guarantees from approved financial institutions.
