Ireland imports an extensive range of meat products from other member states and from third countries. Imports from third, ie non-EU countries are subject to strict rules governing the importation of such products as established under EU harmonised legislation. In particular, the country of origin and the establishment in which the poultry meat was produced must be approved in advance by the EU Commission. Granting approvals is dependent on such factors as the animal health status of the country, adequacy of its veterinary structures, facilities of the production establishment and employment of good hygiene practices. Third country production plants are inspected by veterinary experts from EU countries before approval is given.
The relevant rules provide that responsibility for official inspections of meat imports from third countries rests with the authorities in the member state where the product first arrives in the EU. Such inspections should include checks on accompanying documents and on identity and labelling as well as random physical checks on the product itself. Where importation is authorised, thereafter the meat may circulate freely within the EU. The Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health of the European Commission constantly monitors events in member states and third countries which are likely to have implications for public health.
The framework of veterinary checks provided for by harmonised EU rules, the implementation of those rules by my Department and the veterinary services of other member states, together with the constant programme of monitoring and review of public health risks provided for under the aegis of the standing committee, are intended to provide assurance that imported animal products are fit for human consumption, while allowing member states to fulfil their trade obligations as members of the European Union and the World Trade Organisation.