Vol. 540 No. 2
120 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development the action he is taking to ensure the grading of cattle is fair and balanced; if he is satisfied with the current procedures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20399/01]
Classification of beef carcasses is carried out by officials of my Department in accordance with a standard EU system, using criteria laid down in the Council and Commission regulations. Classification is based on a visual examination of the dressed carcass and is a subjective examination of the carcass characteristics.
To ensure uniformity in the interpretation and application of classification standards, an EU control committee made up of member state and Commission experts visit each member state at approximate three to four yearly intervals. The most recent visit to Ireland was in late 1997 when the operation of the beef carcass classification scheme was found to be very satisfactory. In addition, other visits are made by Commission experts to check compliance with related schemes. One such visit was made to Ireland this spring and the standard of operation of the beef carcass classification scheme was again commended.
The Commission regulations also require each member state to carry out unannounced checks at each slaughter plant at approximate six weekly intervals. In Ireland's case these checks are carried out by management staff and the results are reported annually to the Commission. Apart from their audit function, these visits also provide strong technical back-up to the classification staff operating locally.
The appeals mechanism is a further safeguard that exists within the scheme. Under the mechanism a producer who is not satisfied with the decision of the classification officer may lodge an appeal while the carcass is still intact in the slaughter plant. The regulations allow for a re-assessment of the carcass to take place and an amendment of the original decision, where an error has been made.
I am satisfied that beef carcass classification is carried out here in a fair and balanced manner.
