Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

I spoke to the Commissioner again yesterday on this matter. He assured me the Commission will not hesitate to take the appropriate protection measures if a product, imported from a third country represents a risk for the health of EC consumers, livestock or plants. In September 2006, a senior Commission official visiting the Houses of Oireachtas gave a similar assurance to Members. I have consistently expressed the view that Irish farmers deserve fair play in the market place. I am aware Irish farmers are required to ensure their production systems and farm practices comply fully with a range of EU directives. In this context, I brought to the Commissioner's attention the IFA's published report on beef production in Brazil.

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