Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)
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Question 42: To ask the Minister for Agriculture and Food when full labelling of beef will be implemented, as promised in November 2004; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17386/05]

Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)
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A specific comprehensive traceability and labelling system is in place for beef at retail level. It is also in place for beef up to the point of entry to the restaurant and catering sector. However, labelling is not obligatory at the point of consumption in the restaurant. With the joint aims of protecting consumer interests and to ensure that the consumer is properly informed as to the origin of beef served in this sector, it is my intention to proceed with a legal requirement that the country of origin must be displayed in respect of beef served on such premises once the legal options allowing for this development have been examined.

The Attorney General advised that new or amending primary legislation would be required to implement such rules. As the primary responsibility for food labelling in general rests with the Department of Health and Children, I have initiated correspondence on the matter with my colleague, the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children. Discussions are currently ongoing between officials of both our Departments with a view to progressing the required legislation as soon as possible.