Vol. 469 No. 2
134 Mr. Davern asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the persons he met with during his visit to Libya on a beef export promotion; the names and status of each person; the result, if any, of this visit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17050/96]
I visited Libya on 16 July, accompanied by officials from the Department, to discuss the resumption of trade in cattle and beef between Ireland and Libya. During the visit I held discussions with Dr. Abusowa, Minister for Animal Wealth, Mr. Ali Ben Ramada, Minister for Agriculture, and Mr. Abdel Atti El Obeidi, the Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs. Technical discussions were also held with the Libyan veterinary and health authorities.
I provided the Libyan authorities with details of the comprehensive controls in place in Ireland. Following the discussions it was agreed that a technical delegation from Libya should visit Ireland to view the controls at first hand. It was also agreed that following the lifting of the ban priority would be given to Irish supplies in filling any contracts for live cattle. The visit of the technical delegation will take place as soon as the Libyan authorities have put the necessary arrangements in place.
