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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 19 Nov 2002

Vol. 557 No. 4

Written Answers. - Food Safety Measures.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

161 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the procedures applicable in a hypothetical case (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22321/02]

National legislation provides that no bovine animal may be slaughtered for human consumption in Ireland unless its origin, identity and status can be verified by reference to the central computerised database. The legislation has its origins in the wake of the BSE crisis and the purpose is to provide assurances to consumers that bovine animals of unknown origin do not enter the food chain. This legislation applies equally to stray animals. Unless the origin of the animal can be established, the animal cannot be permitted to enter the food chain and must be slaughtered for destruction. Follow-up of reports of stray animals is a matter for the local authorities.

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