Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

While it will be hard to try to reintroduce Irish produce to the shelves, its displacement by foreign produce will make it even more difficult. It is clear that some Irish companies will fold as a consequence of all of this. The critical objective is not just to see pork and bacon products back on the shelves, accompanied by consumer confidence and all the necessary assurances, but to ensure that Irish pork and bacon products are back on the shelves without delay.

A number of matters have been addressed, but I would like to ask about other matters that have not been covered. The House deserves to know what action will be taken against the supplier of the contaminated feed. That question was not answered in the Minister's address or that of the Minister of State, Deputy Wallace. My colleague, Deputy Ferris, has made reference to reports that inappropriate oil was used in the burning or heating process. Is it the case that plastic coverings were not removed from pans and loaves of bread that were used in the processing of animal feed? That question should be answered in the House this afternoon so there is no further uncertainty. If it is the case, what danger does it present for animals and for the consumer, who is the end user? To what extent can the Minister be certain that others in this business are not also involved in unacceptable bad practices? What steps are being taken to examine the activities of others who have the same supply role as the producer of feed in this case? I ask the Minister to make it clear in his response to Deputies that, arising from this tragic experience, he intends to ensure that from this day forward, nothing other than best practice will be accepted and the necessary inspections and guarantees etc. will be in place.

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