The need for an EU-wide Food Safety Authority was as great as ever, the Minister for Agriculture and Food, Mr Walsh, said.
He had proposed to the Council of Ministers the establishment of such an authority, with responsibility in this area being given to a particular commissioner. He suggested an Irish Commissioner for overseeing food safety and consumer protection.
Mr Peter Callanan (FF) said a substantial tonnage of meat came into this State. He asked what assurance could be offered to those who consumed.