Michael Creed (Cork North West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 1222: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the progress made on the programme for Government proposal to assist and expand the quality assurance schemes in the cereals, pig meat and poultry sectors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47685/08]

Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Significant progress has been made in enhancing the specific quality assurance schemes for the cereals, pigmeat and poultry sectors. The Irish Grain Assurance Scheme (IGAS) assures customers that grain is produced, handled, stored and transported according to a defined Code of Practice. Almost 6,000 cereals producers are now participating in the scheme, which accounts for approximately 90% of grain traded in Ireland. The Department has supported the objectives of the Scheme in a tangible way under the National Development Plan by the provision of grant aid towards the improvement of grain handling and storage facilities both on-farm and at commercial intake points.

The Pigmeat Quality Assurance Scheme (QAS) is now fully accredited under EN45011 at producer and processor level. There are 230 registered members of the Pigmeat Quality Assurance Scheme (QAS), of which 158 are certified at producer level. Farm inspections and processor audits are ongoing with certifications taking place once the required standards have been achieved.

The Poultry Products Quality Assurance Scheme incorporates the requirements that were previously included in chicken, turkey and duck standards. Both the Processor and Producer standards of the new Scheme have been accredited to EN45011 by the Irish National Accreditation Board (INAB). Training of all participants (plant personnel, processors' farm inspectors, producers and Bord Bia auditors) has taken place.

Egg QAS: The new Packing Centre and Producer (including Rearer Requirements) Standards have been presented to and approved by Bord Bia's Technical Advisory. The Standard will be submitted to the Irish National Accreditation Board for assessment under the rules of EN45011. This will be a continuation of the scope of accreditation of the EQAS, not a new application since the EQAS was already accredited.