The response follows Minister Killeen's representation on behalf of a number of Clare farmers who had expressed concern over the standard of Brazilian beef imports.
"Minister Mary Coughlan and Mr. Markos Kyprianou confirmed that EU policy requires that third country imports of animal products meet standards at least equivalent to those required for production in, and trade between, EU member States", explained Minister Killeen.
He continued, "As regards traceability and controls of residues of veterinary medicines, the Commissioner said that the purpose of EU legislation is not to impose on exporting third countries a system of guarantees that is equal to the EU system, but that the exporting country provides guarantees that are equivalent to the standards applied in the EU. Commissioner Kyprianou pointed out that his service is committed to protecting the health of European consumers and livestock."
"The Commissioner also assured Minister Coughlan that the Commission will not hesitate to take appropriate protection measures if a product, imported from a third country or produced in the domestic market represents a risk for the health of ECX consumers, livestock or plants. I am also aware of a similar assurance to members of the Dáil in September 2006 by a senior Commission Official", concluded Minister Killeen.
In a letter this week to Minister Killeen, the Minister for Agriculture and Food stated, "I have consistently expressed the view that Irish farmers deserve fair play in the market place. At EU level I have advocated that produce imported from third countries must meet standards equivalent to those required of community producers. In the interests of our producers and consumers I will continue to adopt this approach."
-ENDS-
Notes to Editor:
- Tony Killeen T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Environment Heritage and Local Government and Communication Energy and Natural Resources with special responsibility for Environment and Energy, is available for interview and further comment on 0035387-2525304. Alternatively please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 00353868534900 or media@dunphypr.com
- High resolution image of Minister Killeen available on request
Mark Dunphy
Dunphy Public Relations
Clonboula,
Connolly,
Ennis,
County Clare
IRELAND
www.dunphypr.com
media@dunphypr.com
00353-868534900 (Mobile)
00353-656839692 (Fax)
