Olivia Mitchell (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 101: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food the action she is taking to ensure that all third country beef is properly labelled; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17319/05]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Beef imports into the European Union from third countries must have been sourced, first, in countries and, second, in premises, that are currently listed and approved by the European Commission and which are subject to veterinary audits by the EU's Food and Veterinary Office. In addition, such imports are subject to checks laid down in the harmonised rules prescribed at European level, and must be accompanied by the prescribed veterinary health certification from the competent authorities in the country of export.

The beef labelling requirements, which are compulsory in all member states, apply to beef sold at retail level within the Community, regardless of whether that beef was produced within the EU or in a third country. Where beef is imported into the Community from a third country it must, at a minimum, be labelled as "Origin: non-EC" along with an indication of the third country in which slaughter took place.

The EU requirements in respect of labelling of beef do not apply at restaurant and catering sector level and Ireland has raised this with the Commission. It is my intention to proceed with a national legal requirement that country of origin must be displayed in respect of beef served on such premises. Discussions are ongoing between my Department and the Department of Health and Children with a view to progressing the required legislation as soon as possible.