Ó Cuív calls on EU to commission probe into beef industry
Mr Ó Cuív said the beef processing industries across Europe need to be examined not just in the wake of the horse meat scandal, but in the context of questionable practices in some European countries.
“I am calling on the European Union to institute an enquiry into every aspect of the beef processing industry across Europe,” he said.
Mr Ó Cuiv said there are a number of issues that need to be examined. These include claims of questionable practices in the industry.
The variation in the price paid for cattle from country to country and whether some sections of the industry are over-dominant also needs to be examined.
“In Ireland, the whole issue of the restriction of access for Irish farmers to the live cattle trade with Britain needs to be investigated.
“There is also a need to examine the industry, its regulations and compliance with EU laws in light of the horse meat scandal,” he said.
Mr Ó Cuiv said Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney should use his influence at European level to press for such an inquiry.
