Vol. 472 No. 4
26 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the proposals, if any, he has to lift the exclusion from the Russian beef market of counties Monaghan, Tipperary and Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23366/96]
The Protocol concluded with the Russian veterinary authorities has been in place since 1 November and is operating satisfactorily. The events leading to the conclusion of this agreement have been outlined in great detail. There was a stark choice between the closure of the Russian market to all Irish beef or temporary restrictions of exports from a small number of counties. Russia was the largest third country market for Irish beef in 1995 and in 1996, and the closure of a market of such economic significance would have created enormous problems for the Irish beef sector.
There has been no negative impact on cattle prices or on the beef export trade as a result. In fact cattle prices have increased quite significantly in recent weeks and a very credible export performance has been achieved by the beef sector this year. Regular contact has been maintained between my Department and the Russian veterinary authorities and the operation of the agreement is being monitored on an ongoing basis.
