Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 22 Jun 2000

Vol. 521 No. 6

Written Answers. - Farm Chemical Inputs.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

35 Mrs. B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the plans he has to ensure that chemicals used in farming are properly controlled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17786/00]

Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (Mr. Walsh)

The production of high quality food of plant origin continues to be dependent on the availability and responsible use of plant protection products. The regulatory system in this country is based on harmonised European Community legislation which requires that all such products be assessed independently before approval is given for their marketing. The pesticide control service of my Department undertakes this evaluation and specific conditions are attached to the use of these products so as to minimise any risk for humans, animals or the environment.

The European Community has initiated a review of all chemical substances used in plant protection products under Council Directive 91/414/EEC concerning the placing of these products on to the market. This country is involved in the review, the outcome of which will determine whether any changes are needed in the existing legislation regarding the use of chemical compounds in such products.

Teagasc operates a number of training and educational courses for farmers and people who are involved in the application and safe use of plant protection products. In addition, Teagasc has published a voluntary code of good practice, which is available to all farmers, on the safe handling, application and storage of pesticides on farms.

The PCS of my Department undertakes a national pesticide monitoring and enforcement programme. The programme is designed to ensure that pesticide residues in food do not exceed the maximum residue limits established in statutory regulations. Results of the monitoring programme show that the level of residues is very low. These results are published annually.

The availability and use of veterinary medicines is governed by strict national legislation derived largely from relevant EU directives. All veterinary medicines must be authorised prior to being placed on the market. Each medicine is designated a route of supply consistent with the degree of control appropriate to the product. Withdrawal periods are established to avoid consumers being exposed to harmful residues. Farmers are required to keep detailed records of the use of medicines for which a withdrawal period has been established.

In addition, my Department carries out an extensive animal residue surveillance programme covering a range of substances. Since the beginning of 2000 for the first time, primary processors are required to carry out their own checks on the basis plan approved by my Department. This system operates independently of and in addition to official testing.