Denis Naughten (Longford-Roscommon, Fine Gael)
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Question 76: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the discussions she has had with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland on the enforcement on the food labelling laws; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18816/06]

Seán Power (Kildare South, Fianna Fail)
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The enforcement of food labelling regulations is included in the service contracts between the official agencies and the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI). The European Communities (Labelling, Presentation and Advertising of Foodstuffs) Regulations 2002 (S.I. No. 483 of 2002 — as amended) is the main legislation in Ireland dealing with the general labelling of pre-packaged foodstuffs. However, there are many other separate labelling provisions in national and European legislation, such as provisions relating to nutrition, beef, fish, natural mineral waters, novel foods, food additives, food supplements, sweeteners and declarations on price indication, weights and measures and merchandise markings.

Labelling inspections are carried out as part of the routine control work of the official agencies. The official agencies include the Health Service Executive, the Department of Agriculture and Food, the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs and the local authorities.

My Department is in touch with officials of the FSAI on an ongoing basis and regular meetings are held to discuss a wide range of issues. Any issues which arise in relation to the enforcement of food legislation, including enforcement of labelling legislation, are discussed where necessary, in this context.