Martin Ferris (Kerry North, Sinn Fein)

Is the Minister of State aware that claims have been made by at least one individual involved in the meat industry that specific risk materials, as defined in the relevant EU scientific options, are being sold for use in the manufacture of cosmetics and that this has taken place despite the appointment of official inspectors to prevent such a transfer of those materials? Has the Minister of State been made aware of any such practices and have the Department inspectors ever voiced concerns that such practices might take place? Will she indicate whether she is satisfied that the current level of inspections and monitoring systems are sufficient? Will she further indicate the penalties for any company or individual found to be involved in such practices?

On a lighter note, given that a great deal of money is spent annually on cosmetics for the Taoiseach, whether it be for foundation, conditioner, moisturiser, liquid blusher, lipstick which I do not assume would apply to him — or eye shadow, and given that considerable specific risk materials could find their way into the cosmetic chain, what measures can we take to at least protect our Taoiseach?

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