Vol. 573 No. 4
215 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the extent to which overseas markets for Irish beef and lamb have been lost, won or recovered in the past 12 months; the likely future developments in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25876/03]
BSE related restrictions have never been imposed on Ireland by the European Commission or by a member state. The UK market, in particular as a destination for Irish beef, has seen a huge growth during the past two years and has remained strong this year. Last year exports to the UK amounted to 250,000 tonnes. Markets for Irish beef in France, the Netherlands, Italy, Germany and Sweden also remain strong. In the course of the past year Switzerland, the Czech Republic, Poland and Hungary have lifted their restrictions on Irish beef imports.
We are keen to have existing restrictions in non-EU markets removed at the earliest possible date. Last year Russia lifted its remaining BSE related restrictions on Irish beef imports.
The Egyptian authorities lifted their restriction on Irish beef in October 2001 but for technical-commercial reasons trade did not resume. Following ongoing contacts with the Egyptian authorities, they lifted restrictions on certain cuts of beef last September. This easing of the restriction on cuts clears the way for a resumption in trade.
Bahrain lifted its restrictions on Irish beef imports in July. My Department works closely with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Bord Bia. It is also in contact with the Saudi authorities and other Gulf state authorities and we are making progress.
The EU is a deficit area and a net importer of lamb. Therefore, export to non-EU countries does not arise. The bulk of our lamb export trade is with France which takes some 80% of the total.
