Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 3 May 2012
252 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when it is proposed that the Libyan authorities will lift their 16 year ban on importation of beef from Ireland and other EU countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22414/12]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy is no doubt aware that I announced last week that I understood that the Libyan authorities were about to lift their 16 year ban on the importation of beef from Ireland and other EU countries. In common with Agriculture Ministries from other Member States, I and my Department are now awaiting official confirmation from the Libyan authorities of the lifting of the ban. The Deputy will understand however that the timing of this official confirmation is in the gift of the Libyan authorities and I cannot pre-empt any announcement by them.
My Department can however ready itself in anticipation of the lifting of the ban. Once official confirmation is received, the next step will be to agree a veterinary health certificate with the Libyan authorities which will set out the conditions under which the export of Irish beef can take place. My department has already sent a draft certificate to the Libyan authorities for their consideration, so that we are as prepared as we can be once the ban is officially lifted.
