Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:71 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the success, if any, in reopening Arab country markets to Irish beef; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5385/98]
Vol. 487 No. 8
71 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the success, if any, in reopening Arab country markets to Irish beef; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5385/98]
Due to the very low incidence of BSE in Ireland, the precautionary measures in place and effectiveness of our animal health controls, it has been possible to provide the assurances required to enable trade in beef to continue to most of our international markets, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, UEA, Kuwait, Bahrain and Algeria. Indeed, exports of Irish beef to Egypt almost doubled last year. Agreement has recently been reached on veterinary certification with Qatar which will enable trade to resume. Negotiations are continuing with Oman and I hope this market will also be reopened.