Terence Flanagan (Dublin North East, Fine Gael)
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Question 427: To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans to make compulsory the displaying in restaurants of Irish produce; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11155/11]

Simon Coveney (Cork South Central, Fine Gael)
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The Minister for Health & Children has overall responsibility for the general food labelling legislation. Responsibility for the enforcement of this legislation rests with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (F.S.A.I.). This is done through service contracts between the F.S.A.I and my Department, The Sea Fisheries Protection Authority, the Health Service Executive and the Local Authority Veterinary Service.

Currently, under EU legislation, specific country of origin labelling is only required in the case of beef, unprocessed poultry and fruit and vegetables. My Department conducts checks, including labelling, as appropriate in the business premises for which it has responsibility. It is understood from the FSAI that a range of inspections are carried out at catering and retail establishments by the other service-contracted bodies which include checks on labelling.

In the case of products other than beef, unprocessed poultry and fruit and vegetables, under the general labelling Directive (2000/13/EC), the place of origin of the foodstuff must be given only if its absence might mislead the consumer. Discussions on draft EU regulations amending labelling requirements are at an advanced stage. The proposals provide for origin labelling of other meats and the Department of Health and Children which represents Ireland in the negotiations keeps in close touch with my Department.