There is no need for a full-scale introduction of DNA testing in all of the country’s meat processing facilities, according to Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney.

Responding to a parliamentary question from Fianna Fáil’s Éamon Ó Cuív in the Dáil last week, Minister Coveney, said both Irish and EU food laws are enough to curtail any threat. Ó Cuív wanted to know if the Minister was planning on introducing mandatory DNA testing in all meat processing facilities in Ireland.

“I am satisfied that the traceability requirements in place are sufficient to ensure the safety of the product while also providing information to consumers and retailers. This is borne out by the successful audits of our traceability systems from the many third countries that have opened their markets to Irish beef in recent years,” Minister Coveney said.

“My Department has a permanent veterinary presence at all DAFM (Department of Agriculture) approved slaughter plants. Controls at standalone secondary processing plants are carried out at a frequency which is based on an annual risk assessment for each plant. An annual audit of imported products is carried out in each DAFM-approved meat plant. The audit includes physical identity, labelling and document checks and concerns product originating both in EU member states and third countries. In addition, labelling and documentary checks form part of the routine procedures conducted by Department officials.”

The issue of DNA testing came to the fore following the discovery of horsemeat in the old ABP Silvercrest facility in Ballybay, Monaghan.