Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:226 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has satisfied himself that all meat sold here is clearly labelled to indicate the country of origin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25887/03]
Written Answers. - Food Labelling.
I have been concerned for some time about the whole issue of food labelling and for this reason I established a widely representative group to examine the matter which reported to me on 10 December 2002. On the basis of the recommendations of the food labelling group I took a number of actions which included: arranging for the centralisation of control of food labelling in the Food Safety Authority of Ireland; pursuing with the EU Commission the question of extending the beef labelling regulations to the catering sector; and asking the consumer liaison panel to carry out market research to identify consumer requirements on the origin of meat.
Where there is evidence that these requirements are not adhered to, then the agency responsible for controlling the particular sector and for implementing the legislation should take the appropriate action. In relation to the beef slaughtering and cutting plants under the control of my Department, I have asked the Department's veterinary inspectorate to examine the procedures in place to ensure full compliance. It is a matter for the FSAI, in conjunction with the local authorities and health boards, to address any alleged breaches in the retail and catering sectors and I understand the FSAI is following up the matters raised.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:227 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the incentives provided to hotels and restaurants in which authentic labelling of beef, lamb and other meat products is practised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25888/03]
Bord Bia operates the féile bia scheme which promotes the importance of food sourcing in hotels, restaurants, pubs and workplaces throughout the country. This programme is in response to growing consumer concerns on the quality and origin of food offered when eating out.
EU beef labelling regulations were introduced in 2000 and are applicable to operators involved in the production and marketing of beef. As they stand at present, these regulations do not extend to the catering industry. With regard to lamb and other meat products the general food labelling regulations apply. I have raised with the EU Commission the question of extending these regulations to the catering sector.
Clearly, consumer requirements are a key element in assessing the need to change or broaden existing labelling rules with regard to meat, and I have asked the consumer liaison panel to carry out market research in this area. I expect to have the findings of this research shortly.