Feargal Quinn (Independent)

Since 1996 meat and bonemeal have been quite rightly banned from animal feed which has to be rendered instead. The Minister for Agriculture and Food, Deputy Walsh, has informed the beef industry that the subsidy paid to enable such material to be sent to Germany – there is no market for it here – will no longer apply from 1 March. This announcement has caused a great deal of concern in the industry and possible export markets. I ask the Leader of the House to ensure the Minister recognises the urgency of the issue, given that the deadline will be reached in about ten days. I gather that it may not be possible to render meat and bonemeal after that date. Even if it is, there may be no outlet for it. The material being sent to Germany for incineration at present will not be dealt with as there is no suitable incinerator in Ireland. I ask the Leader to draw the Minister's attention to this urgent matter.