§ Mr. Ron DaviesTo ask the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will be able to tell abattoir owners whether their applications for derogation from upgrading their plants to EC standards have been successful.
§ Mr. SoamesThe Department's veterinary officers are currently in the process of visiting all fresh meat premises seeking derogations in order to upgrade to the new EC structural standards. Before a derogation can be granted, a detailed work plan must be agreed between the plant and the Department. This work is proceeding as quickly as possible and owners will be informed individually about the outcome of their derogation applications.