Martin Ferris
Ceist:84 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if there is evidence that prohibited bone and meal animal feed products are still in use. [25233/02]
Written Answers. - Animal Feedstuffs.
I have no evidence that meat and bone meal is being used in animal feed in Ireland. I am satisfied that the prohibition of the use of meat and bone meal as an animal feed or as a component in compound animal feeds is being rigorously enforced.
From time to time evidence of cross-contamination is found under a rigorous monitoring regime. Appropriate actions are taken in such cases.
I am satisfied that the controls on animal feed that are operated by my Department fulfil all the obligations under the EU regulations on animal feeds and in certain areas go beyond what is required. The EU controls in this area are continually monitored and reviewed by the European Commission and have been intensified on a number of occasions. The controls in operation here cover both home produced and imported feed from the EU and third countries.