Beef ban set to end by 1 June in NI

21 May 1998

Beef ban set to end by 1 June in NI

BEEF exports from Northern Ireland look certain to resume next month following the European Standing Veterinary Committees approval of the certified-herds scheme this week.

Franz Fischler, European Union (EU) farm commissioner, is recommending his colleagues support the resumption of exports from 1 June.

But exporters said it could take several years to regain former sales because of the strength of Sterling and possible continuing consumer resistance to British beef.

EU farm ministers will consider a further plan allowing the export of meat from animals born after August 1996 for the rest of the UK within the next couple of months. Hopes are rising ministers will endorse it by the end of the year.

• Northern Ireland beef exports to resume in June, FWi, yesterday (20 May) — Click here
• Financial Times 21/05/98 page 30