Labelling scheme for beef announced

THE farm lobby has welcomed the announcement by Agriculture and Food Minister Mary Coughlan that a voluntary country of origin beef labelling scheme is to be introduced immediately in hotels, restaurants and pubs.

Ms Coughlan said agreement had been reached with the Irish Hotels Federation, the Restaurants Association of Ireland and both Vintners groups representing the pub sector.

She said she was confident the system will make available to consumers on a voluntary basis the country of origin information of beef served in their premises will commence in the very near future.