Minister Killeen Welcomes Creation Of Animal Health Ireland

The Junior Agriculture Minister stated that the overall improve of animal health standards would secure improved profitability for farmers and international competitiveness of Irish livestock products.

Reacting to the formal launch of the AHI, Minister Killeen said, "By pledging their support for a coordinated national approach to animal health, industry stakeholders within the agri-food industry, in particular primary producers, food processors and service providers, have demonstrated their combined commitment to improving the sector."

He explained, "It provides an opportunity to build on the significant resources and capabilities and expertise already available within a range of organisations. It also provides an opportunity for the dissemination of high-quality technical information, which will assist the decision-making process particularly for industry."

Minister Killeen noted that the health status of the national herd now and in the future would be a critical element in assisting farmers to add value to farm incomes and allowing Irish food products to remain competitive in a world trading environment.

"Animal health and food safety will be critical contributors to international competitiveness both as a result of the impact - perceived or otherwise - of animal diseases on product quality and safety and also because of the special importance that animal health and food safety have in international trade. We have many examples of the actual and potential problems that arise from food safety issues including most recently from the dioxin issue. And of course, high animal health is a major contributor to optimal efficiency and profitability as farm level," concluded the Minister.

Animal Health Ireland is being driven and part-financed by industry with Government support.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editor:
- Tony Killeen T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (with special responsibility for Fisheries and Forestry), is available for interview and further comment on 0035387-2525304. Alternatively please contact Mark Dunphy of Dunphy Public Relations on 00353868534900 or media@dunphypr.com
- High-resolution images of Minister Killeen are available

Mark Dunphy
Dunphy Public Relations
www.dunphypr.com
media@dunphypr.com
00353-868534900