Paddy McHugh
Ceist:195 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of imported tonnes of pork in 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21901/03]
Written Answers. - Trade Statistics.
Paddy McHugh
Ceist:196 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of imported tonnes of bacon in 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21902/03]
Paddy McHugh
Ceist:197 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of imported tonnes of chicken in 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21903/03]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 195 to 197, inclusive, together.
The Central Statistics Office is responsible for the collection of trade statistics in relation to imports of meat and meat preparations. The table below, compiled from data supplied by that office, gives the information requested by the Deputy. As regards the table, it should be noted in certain cases the record of import may include the re-import of Irish products that were originally the subject of an export from this country.
|
Tonnes |
|
|
Bacon |
7,323 |
|
Pork |
24,756 |
|
Other pork products including sausages and offals. |
16,255 |
|
Chicken including processed products |
32,061 |
On a more general point, it should be noted that under EU harmonised rules, imports into the European Union from third countries must have been sourced in premises and in countries which are approved by the European Commission and which are subject to veterinary audits by the EU's Food and Veterinary Office. In addition, such imports are subject to checks on import laid down in harmonised rules prescribed at European level and must be accompanied by veterinary health certification from the authorities in the country of export. Where required, sampling for laboratory analysis for the purpose of safeguarding human and animal health is carried out.