In a setback for Ireland’s agricultural sector, beef exports to China have been suspended following the detection of an atypical case of BSE (mad cow disease). The 10.5-year-old cow tested positive during routine checks by the Department of Agriculture’s Central Veterinary Research Laboratory. Despite reassurances from Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue that there is no threat to the human food chain, the suspension has raised concerns. Ireland had only regained access to the Chinese market in January after a three-year hiatus due to a previous BSE case. The Irish Farmers’ Association is urging the government to swiftly address Chinese authorities and emphasize the safety of Irish beef. The atypical nature of the case and Ireland’s stringent testing regime are highlighted in the efforts to restore trade, with €16.5 million at stake this year alone.
