Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 10 Mar 1993

Vol. 427 No. 7

Written Answers. - Illegal Use of Growth Promoters.

Ivor Callely

Ceist:

103 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the number of prosecutions taken by his Department in 1992 for the illegal use of growth promoters in livestock; and if he will make a statement on the illegal use of these growth promoters.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry (Mr. J. Walsh)

Nine prosecutions were taken in 1992 for offences relating to growth promoters. Summonses have issued in 19 cases. A further 15 cases have been referred to the Chief State Solicitor to institute legal proceedings.

My Department, in conjunction with the Garda Síochána and Customs and Excise officials, is vigorously enforcing the law in this matter. A Bill amending existing legislation is being finalised and will be introduced shortly.