Tom Kitt (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

That is a fair assessment. We must abide by EU procurement legislation and do so as a responsible member state. This matter has been well rehearsed in the media and we know the position of the IFA. The Department will comply with the relevant national and EU food safety legislation designed to ensure that animal products are produced to standards that guarantee the safety of food and the protection of human and animal health. We apply the highest of standards. I took the opportunity today to outline the position of my ministerial colleague, Deputy Mary Coughlan, and we will certainly ensure the House is kept updated on this issue.

See this speech in context