No legal basis for EU bailout

NATIONAL state aid for each farmer affected by the pork crisis, of up to €7,500 over three years, or up to 100% compensation — if it can be establish the crisis is an exceptional occurrence — was all the EU could offer Tuesday.

On the day when the pork crisis escalated, with potential contamination found in three cattle herds, EU spokesman Michael Mann said there was no legal basis for a Brussels compensation pay out, but the EU would allow state-aid, depending on the circumstances.

Taoiseach Brian Cowen had said he might seek “co-funding” from the EU to help the pig industry cover its recall costs.