Seán Sherlock (Cork East, Labour)
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Question 114: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the situation which has arisen at a poultry producer (details supplied) which has been placed in interim examinership which management claim has largely come about due to lax laws in relation to food labelling; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25578/08]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
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I am aware that the poultry industry not only in Ireland but also throughout Europe is facing increasing difficulties in maintaining profitability. The ever-increasing fuel costs along with high prices of feeding stuff is continuing to apply pressures on the trade.

In the context of labelling my Department in conjunction with the Department of Health and Children, drafted National Regulations that would require an indication of country of origin on poultrymeat, pigmeat and sheepmeat. There is already such a provision for beef.

While the Commission adopted a negative opinion to this on the grounds that the proposed legislation was not in compliance with EU food labelling regulations, it afforded us the opportunity to provide further information. Such information has been provided recently and the Commission has three months to consider it.