Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)

Twelve of the recommendations have been implemented in full. Four are specific matters for the Food Safety Authority of Ireland. The Minister, Deputy Coughlan, has raised the question of the origin and labelling of food, particularly in regard to food service outlets, with her colleagues at European level in the Council of Ministers. The Minister has consistently done this to best protect the interests of the consumer. Substantial work is ongoing in respect of the remaining recommendations. The Minister outlined yesterday the legal advice available to the Department on the further development of labelling of beef products. Legislation will be required, including an amendment to the Health Act 1970. Should there be any undue delay in bringing forward that proposed amendment, the Department of Agriculture and Food will consider if it is possible to bring forward primary legislation.

This issue is the subject of ongoing discussions between the Tánaiste and the Minister and officials in both Departments. The Minister, Deputy Coughlan, has raised this issue in different fora available within the European Union. Our determination is to ensure the consumer has the widest available knowledge and information because we want to protect the consumer.

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