Fine Gael calls for stricter food guidelines

Fine Gael has called for stricter guidelines on food labelling to ensure that the origin of meat products is crystal clear.

Ireland's first case of variant CJD, the human form of Mad Cow Disease, has been traced to a hamburger believed to have been imported from the UK.

The 23-year-old man who contracted the disease up to eight years ago is currently being treated in a Dublin hospital.

Fine Gael TD Denis Naughton said Irish consumers have nothing to fear if they stick to home-grown meat.

Mr Naughton said: "Consumers have no need for concern in relation to Irish meat products."

"I think it is important that we have clear and concise labelling, both on the supermarket shelves and in butchers but also in the catering trade, so consumers are confident that they are eating a quality Irish Product."