FF moves Dáil Motion calling for Independent Investigation into Horsemeat Controversy

Published on: 21 February 2013


Fianna Fáil Agriculture Spokesperson, Éamon Ó Cuív TD, has re-iterated his call for an independent investigation into the horsemeat controversy as the European crisis continues to deepen.

Fianna Fáil this week placed a motion before the Dáil calling for an independent investigation into the horsemeat scandal.

Deputy Ó Cuív commented: “Over the past number of weeks we have seen the crisis escalate to a European-wide scandal that has dogged the beef industry across the continent. Consumer demand for all beef products has been hit and the longer this controversy rumbles on, the greater the risk to the beef sector here.

“Fianna Fáil has put forward this motion to try and restore confidence in the sector and reassure consumers and farmers that the Irish authorities have a handle on the situation.

“The controversy has rumbled on for over 3 months but we seem to be further than ever from the root cause of horsemeat finding its way into Irish beef burgers.

“It is time for an independent investigation to be carried out by a person appointed by the Oireachtas to ascertain the full facts. The Minister has failed to adequately deal with this controversy and although it is endemic in Europe, it also needs to be controlled here.

“We urgently need clarity and answers as to the origins of the horsemeat and who has been complicit in this criminality. An independent investigation should be tasked with examining the whole beef processing and horse slaughter processes; including labelling as well as import and export practices.

“I would urge the Minister for Agriculture to take this proposal on board.”

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