Northern Ireland pork certificate hope
Pig farmers in Northern Ireland are hoping to escape the fall-out from the recent scare over meat contaminated by dioxins in the Irish Republic.
Export trade certificates are being issued stating that no pigs reared in the North have eaten the contaminated meal that prompted withdrawal of products north and south of the border.
Agriculture minister Michelle Gildernew has asked Europe for private storage aid similar to that given to the Republic last week. It would allow producers to store their meat and sell it when the market has recovered.
Said the minister: "My department is also supporting the industry through the provision of export trade certificates. Where appropriate I, in conjunction with Invest NI, am currently exploring options to provide additional assistance to processors to raise awareness of pork quality and to increase consumer confidence in pork produce."
Copyright © Press Association 2008
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