Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 23 Apr 1997

Vol. 478 No. 2

Written Answers. - Beef Exports.

Brendan Smith

Ceist:

137 Mr. B. Smith asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the new initiatives, if any, he is undertaking to secure additional markets for the beef trade, carcass and live trade; and if he will make a statement on the matter, [10908/97]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry (Mr. Yates):

Ireland already exports cattle and beef to over 60 markets worldwide. Given the importance of this sector to the national economy, I have spared no effort in the past to maintain existing markets and to secure additional outlets for Irish products.

Already this year, I have secured agreement on veterinary certification with Egypt and the United Arab Emirates thus ensuring that beef exports will continue unimpeded to these destinations.I intend to travel to Egypt next month to have discussions about re-opening of the market there for live cattle. In June I will receive the Russian Minister for Agriculture to discuss the restrictions currently in place against beef from certain countries. I am in touch with my opposite number in Libya about securing a favourable outcome to the recent visit of a veterinary delegation from that country. As regards Iran, technical discussions are continuing with a view to agreeing a mutually acceptable veterinary Protocol. I have encouraged An Bord Bia to maintain the momentum of its promotional effort for Irish beef within Europe in order to capitalise on the recovery of consumption within the EU.

These are some of the key markets to which Irish cattle and beef are exported currently. In addition to the above, with colleagues in the Department of Foreign Affairs and An Bord Bia, my Department and I are actively engaged in seeking new markets in other countries which do not as yet have a tradition in importing Irish beef. Recent initiatives include countries such as Morocco, Syria, Poland, Azerbaijan and Turkey.