Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 3 Dec 1991

Vol. 413 No. 9

Written Answers. - Pig Production Company.

Jim Mitchell

Ceist:

148 Mr. J. Mitchell asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his attention has been drawn to a report by the Midland Environmental Awareness Group (details supplied) regarding their concern at the processes and practices of a company (details supplied) engaged in the production of pigs; if he will outline the steps he is taking in the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Dr. Woods)

I have just received a copy of the report referred to which is being examined by my Department.

The main issues raised relate to compliance with planning requirements under the Planning Acts, the use of antibiotics, pig health and welfare and the production code of the company concerned.

My concern is to ensure that rearing practices used on farms are such that the product is produced in a humane and proper fashion and is suitable for human consumption. In the case referred to, I am arranging for further monitoring to ensure that there are no major problems in this regard. My Department have no function in relation to individual company production and marketing strategies except where breaches of animal health and welfare regulations might arise. Where any such problems come to notice, my Department would take whatever appropriate action is considered necessary.

The planning aspects are not a matter for my Department.