Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 22 Jun 2000

Vol. 521 No. 6

Written Answers. - Meat Imports.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

80 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the current position in relation to importation of meat and meat products; if significant volumes can be identified in any particular area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17853/00]

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

Ireland imports a range of meat and meat preparations from other member states of the EU and from third coun tries. In 1999 Ireland imported approximately 90,000 tonnes of such products, including beef, pigmeat, mutton, poultry and a range of associated preparations and products.

In accordance with its trade obligations as a member of the European Union and the World Trade Organisation, Ireland is obliged to accept these imports, provided they comply with harmonised EU rules governing veterinary and zootechnical checks applicable to intra community and third country trade.