Pat O'Neill (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I compliment the Minister. It is important that we open new markets and it is to be hoped the US market will be an exciting one for Irish beef. I have a question on the new markets. They will also be opened to other countries. The Minister and the new Commissioner will be part of the discussions on world trade agreements, especially those on South American beef, which will become our largest threat in supplying certain markets. What is the current position in regard to the disease status of South American beef? Will that have an effect should it gain status in regard to world trade agreements and competition for our beef? Japan is a considerable distance away in terms of exporting beef. I presume we would only export certain cuts and offal, and the same would apply to the Chinese market. The US would not be as difficult to export to. It was mentioned that 40% of the beef consumed in Saudi Arabia was exported from Ireland, but a lot of that comprised live exports. Is it envisaged that the sanctions on live exports will be eased in terms of the compliance regulations regarding animal welfare for shipping companies?