Vol. 539 No. 1
58 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the position regarding animals slaughtered under the beef destruction scheme; if all carcasses have been disposed of; the method of disposal; the number and value of the animals destroyed to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18786/01]
Up to 15 June, 259,819 animals had been slaughtered under the EU purchase for destruction, PFD, scheme at a purchase cost of approximately £153 million. All material produced under the scheme, excluding the hides, is rendered immediately at dedicated rendering plants throughout the country. The meat and bone meal resulting from the rendering process is placed in store pending its ultimate destruction by incineration. All the hides are processed in Ireland and the tallow which results from the rendering process is being used as a fuel. All the disposal activities are being controlled strictly in accordance with the relevant EU regulations.
