Russia raises the age-limit for BSE testing of slaughtered animals

A DECISION by the Russian authorities to raise the age-limit above which slaughtered animals must be tested for BSE in respect of beef exports to the country from Ireland has been welcomed by Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Minister Brendan Smith.

The raising of the age limit from 30 months to 48 months means the BSE testing requirements for exports to the Russian Federation are now the same as for exports to European Union member states.

Mr Smith said this positive news was the result of intensive efforts at political, diplomatic and technical level.

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, together with the Department of Foreign Affairs, with the assistance of Bord Bia, have been working closely on this issue over the last 18 months. “This is a very welcome decision as the Russian Federation has been an important market for Irish beef in the past.

“The decision by the competent authorities in the Russian Federation follows the submission of a detailed risk assessment by my Department examining the risk involved in raising the age limit for BSE testing. This positive decision removes a technical barrier to the export of beef from Ireland to Russia and should help to stimulate the trade.”