Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I would like to ask the Leader for an urgent debate on the impending beef crisis that is unfolding. I am concerned that the "horse burger" phenomenon, as it is known worldwide, has become very serious and critical. The Minister said on "Prime Time" last night that he was not surprised by the most recent revelations that seem to be coming on a weekly basis. However, I was particularly surprised and the farming community was extremely concerned. All of the farming organisations are concerned about the future of the beef industry, which is a valuable component of our multi-billion euro agrifood industry. This issue needs to be discussed in this House as a matter of urgency.

I would like the Leader to find out why the initial information that was made available to the Minister last November was not acted on more swiftly. Why was the Garda Síochána not called in? Why was the Food Safety Authority of Ireland not more efficient in dealing with this matter? It is essential that we have a debate on it. I would have proposed an amendment to the Order of Business, but I know the Minister is away. I am not saying this to convey a threat to the Minister or anything like that. I am expressing deep concern on behalf of the farming community about where we are going. It is now a worldwide phenomenon. Originally, it was a joke that a bit of horsemeat was found in some burgers that were manufactured in this country. It is no longer a joke. I emphasise that it is doing severe damage to our substantial beef exports. As we all declare in here from time to time, the agrifood industry is the backbone of the recovery of our economy. The Taoiseach and the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine should be more proactive. If Senators will excuse the pun, I think we are now trying to chase the horse when the stable door has bolted.