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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 7 Nov 2002

Vol. 556 No. 5

Written Answers. - Beef Exports.

Tom Hayes

Ceist:

88 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason only a small consignment of beef has been exported to the Egyptian market; the live exports which are taking place in 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20911/02]

The decision by the Egyptian authorities in October of last year to lift the ban on Irish beef imports was a welcome development for Irish cattle and beef sectors. Earlier this year, an initial consignment of approximately 65 tonnes of beef was produced and shipped to Egypt in accordance with Egyptian veterinary requirements. The entire production process was overseen by a team of Egyptian veterinarians who subsequently reported their satisfaction with the procedures. There were no live exports to Egypt in 2002.

Further beef exports to Egypt are now a commercial matter for the industry. The recent introduction of a special EU export refund rate for Egypt which is 30% above the normal level should be of major help in allowing Irish exporters regain a strong presence on this important market. I have made it clear to the industry here that I believe a longer term perspective should be taken in relation to this particular market in view of its importance as a major importer and that the opportunity now presented by the reopening of the market and the introduction of an exceptionally high refund level should not be lost.

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