I propose to take Questions Nos. 582 and 583 together.
I am very much aware of the importance of competition in the beef and lamb sector. For this reason it is critically important to have a robust legal basis for the evaluation of proposals for mergers and acquisitions.
I noted the outcome of the European Commission's decision last week on this particular case. I also noted that the proposal has been analysed in accordance with the established procedure under competition law rules and am satisfied that the European Commission took into account the impact of the merger on competition in the beef and lamb sector.
My Department provided statistical data on the beef and sheepmeat sectors to DG Competition in the form of a questionnaire submitted to stakeholders.
I would like to reiterate that if evidence emergences of practices by this or any other entity which are contrary to competition rules, the possibility of the matter being taken up with the relevant Competition Authorities remains open.