Monday, October 7th: Officials, including the director of the Russian Agriculture Ministry's Veterinary Service, Mr Vyacheslav Avilov, arrive in Dublin. They join Dr Zotkine, Russia's permanent veterinary official in Ireland, to discuss the future of the beef trade between the two countries in the light of the BSE crisis.
Tuesday, October 8th: The Minister for Agriculture, Mr Yates, meets the Russian officials at his Department. Contacts continue between Irish and Russian officials.
Wednesday, October 9th:
Following another round of discussions between the respective officials, Mr Yates hosted a dinner for the Russians. This is his last direct meeting with them.
Thursday, October 10th: The Taoiseach, Mr Bruton, meets Russian officials and takes them to dinner in the Old Dublin restaurant. Mr Yates is kept informed by officials of unfolding discussions.
Friday, October 11th: Discussions resume between officials. The Russians, for the first time, propose that a ban be imposed on the export of beef from seven counties. Mr Yates informs the Taoiseach of their suggestion and instructs his officials not to accept the plan. He also consults his Department secretary, Mr Michael Dowling.
Saturday, October 12th: Irish officials go to Dublin Airport to meet the Russian representatives as they prepare to leave. In the airport's VIP lounge, the assistant secretary at the Department of Agriculture, Mr John Malone, and the chief veterinary officer, Mr Colm Gaynor, sign the protocol which prohibits the sale of beef to Russia from Tipperary, Cork and Monaghan. Mr Yates is in Enniscorthy, attending his constituency clinic.