Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 20 May 2003

Vol. 567 No. 1

Written Answers. - Meat Inspection Service.

John Deasy

Ceist:

182 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his attention has been drawn to the concern expressed by members of the farming community regarding the cutback in hours of veterinary inspectors at slaughter factories; if his attention has been drawn to the knock-on effect this will have for both farmers and employees of these factories; the plans he has to introduce meat inspectors to reduce the cost involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13561/03]

Minister for Agriculture and Food (Mr. Walsh)

There has been no decline in processing activity so far this year as a result of the measures to control the annual budget for meat inspection work. The allocation of veterinary resources for the work in question has been set in accordance with the budgetary allocation for the year. I have allowed meat plants some flexibility in the use of these resources to enable them to meet their commercial commitments on the clear understanding that the overall budget allocation for the year must be respected. Meat plants must therefore plan their activities accordingly.

My Department is currently examining all aspects of the meat inspection service with a view to ensuring that it provides an efficient and cost effective service. Proposals that emanate from this examination will be discussed with all the interested parties.