Fianna Fáil TD pushes for lifting of ‘outdated’ ban on Irish beef

Fianna Fáil spokesperson on foreign affairs Brendan Smith has urged visiting representatives of the Chinese government to push for the repeal of China’s “outdated” ban on Irish beef.

At a meeting in Leinster House yesterday, Mr Smith and vice minister Yu Hongjun of the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China discussed economic development, human rights, agriculture and trade between Ireland and China.

“Many Irish food and dairy companies are renowned in China for their excellent quality produce,” said Mr Smith. “Our beef is known across the world for its quality. It is my contention that the current Chinese ban is outdated. I asked the Chinese authorities to revisit the issue of banning Irish beef and was assured by Minister Yu Hongjun that this matter is under review.”