91998E2977

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2977/98

by John McCartin (PPE) to the Commission

(8 October 1998)

Subject: Incineration of pigmeat

Is the Commission aware that pigmeat, which is a rich and valuable food, is being incinerated because of lack of markets in Member States and can the Commission state whether they have considered using this surplus food for the relief of famine in poor countries or even in the Soviet Union where temporary shortages may occur in the coming winter.

Answer given by Mr Fischler on behalf of the Commission

(18 November 1998)

The Commission is not aware of the use of incineration in the Community as a measure to reduce the supply of pigs. In the framework of a temporary national and exceptional scheme in Northern Ireland, however, pigs were rendered and then buried in a landfill site. This scheme was applied for a short period in summer 1998 after a fire in an important pig slaughterhouse, in order to overcome animal welfare problems for heavy pigs which could not be slaughtered because of the lack of slaughter capacity.

There are clear signs that normal trade of pigmeat with Russia is recovering and also new outlets have been found by traders. The recently increased exports refunds and the introduction of aid for private storage should help. The Commission is monitoring developments in Russia very carefully and will continue to respond in an appropriate manner.