Ray Burke
Ceist:26 Mr. R. Burke asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the ongoing efforts, if any, being specifically made by his Department and the Irish Diplomatic Corps to address the crisis in the Irish beef industry. [11119/96]
Written Answers. - Beef Industry Crisis.
As was made clear to the Deputy in a reply to his question on the same matter on 25 April, Irish embassies abroad have, since the outset of the current crisis, given the highest priority to defending the reputation of Irish beef. I can assure the Deputy that this continues to be the case and that embassies, in co-operation with the Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, An Bord Bia and other State agencies, are working to ensure continued access to markets and to provide reassurance to consumers.
To date the activities of my Department and embassies have helped to secure the reopening of a number of markets. With regard to those countries which have not yet lifted restrictions on our products, the focus of our efforts is to encourage decision making on the basis of the internationally recognised disease-free status of the Irish herd. I avail of every opportunity when meeting counterparts from other countries to promote Irish beef.