Beef deal with Russia welcomed

The Russian government's decision not to impose a ban on Irish and EU beef exports  has been welcomed by Minister for Labour Affairs Tony Killeen.

Mr Killeen said the news was "hugely significant for Irish agriculture" given that Russia is our second

largest market for beef and food exports.

Ireland exports some €100 million worth of food products to Russia each year, of which €40 million is Irish beef.

"I would now hope that this agreement can create a climate for the resolution of the Russian ban on Polish beef exports," the Minister said.

Russia is seeking stronger assurances concerning the origin and standards of EU beef products and it is pushing the EU to review its food safety and veterinary programmes.

A ban on all EU meat exports to Russia was averted last night after both sides agreed to a compromise at a meeting in Moscow.