Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I am glad to note the Government accepted our offer of waiving ordinary Taoiseach's Question Time to deal with this matter. I will not play petty politics with an issue of fundamental importance to the Irish economy. I am deeply concerned about what has happened since an illegal substance found its way into the human food chain. I note the European Union has turned down the Government's request for compensation for processors to get the pork and bacon industry back in full swing and products back on the shelves of retail outlets here and abroad. The Taoiseach is aware that pig farmers are among the most regulated in any agri sector and are required to have specific housing, temperature control, breeds of animals and concentrate feed to get the best product.

This is not their fault or the fault of the processor. It is critical that the industry be allowed to return to work. What is the Government's response to the refusal of the European Union to allow for a compensation package for processors who are not bluffing on this occasion and who simply cannot meet the financial pressure of disposing of stock already in situ?

Information received an hour ago on the results from cattle slaughtered showed that of a total of 3,000 slaughtered, eight of 11 herds are clear and three are above the legal limit for PCBs in beef. This has significant implications. How does the Government propose to deal with the situation where a product recall is not envisaged? How will confidence be restored for consumers at home and abroad in two fundamentally important issues for the Irish economy?

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