Coveney: Horse meat controvery has had 'no discernible impact outside of Ireland and UK'

The Agriculture Minister says the horse meat controversy has had no discernible impact on markets outside of Ireland and the UK.

Investigations are underway after the discovery of equine DNA at the Silvercrest and Rangeland burger production plants.

Simon Coveney is warning that if there is any fraudulent activity behind the horse meat contamination - it will be fully exposed.

He admits damage is being done to Ireland's reputation - but he's confident the challenge will be overcome and consumer confidence restored.

"I have asked Bord Bia to maintain constant contact with our export markets to reassure markets that there's no food safety issue and that it is being dealt with swiftly and appropriately but also thoroughly by the Irish authorities.

"Thankfully all the indications are that this incident has had no discernible impact outside of Ireland and the UK."