Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 July 2004
201 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the extent to which he proposes to improve the labelling of quality Irish meat and meat products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20533/04]
Amharc ar fhreagraAll meat products sold at retail level in Ireland are subject to the general labelling requirements set out in national and EU legislation. In relation to beef, EU regulations provide for a detailed labelling system to be applied at retail sale which is over and above the general labelling provisions. There is, however, a gap in these requirements in so far as they do not apply at restaurant and catering sector level and I have announced my intention to proceed with a legal requirement that country of origin must be displayed in respect of beef served on such premises. This measure will come into effect once the necessary control and implementation arrangements are in place.
When I have evaluated the impact of this measure I will consider the question of extending the scope of the regulations to other meats.
