Feargal Quinn (Independent) | Oireachtas source

We need to remind ourselves that when we raise a matter in this House, it can result in action, sometimes much later. We had a very good debate here two years ago on food provenance. It was suggested that we should be able to determine where food comes from. The Minister was not able to accept the proposition that was before the House at the time because he wanted to go through Europe first to ensure it was in line with anything being introduced there. It was announced yesterday that the consultation process on country-of-origin labelling for non-prepacked meat, which will involve the Food Safety Authority of Ireland and the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, would have to conclude by 31 August. We have had food provenance determination for prepacked meat, but not for loose or non-prepacked meat, including beef and pork. Now we can have it on non-prepacked meat as well. We have until 31 August to make sure that happens.

I would like to mention another item that was announced or taken into account yesterday. It has been said on a number of occasions in this House that people should not be going to prison for not paying their fines. The Government announced yesterday that people would now be able to pay fines in instalments. I have given two reminders that matters raised in this House, on the Order of Business or in the context of a Bill, can result in something happening. I congratulate the Government on the action it has taken in these two areas, even if it has taken a long time.