Vol. 398 No. 1
30 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Health if it is intended to amend the Food and Hygiene Regulations, 1950 to 1989, to comply with EC directives on harmonisation of regulations; if he will give the total number of health officers available to ensure the implementation of such regulations; if it is intended to increase the numbers; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Presumably the Deputy is referring to the EC Directive on the official control of foodstuffs.
The food hygiene regulations were last updated by amendment regulations which came into effect on 1 May 1989. However, implementation of the directive on the official control of foodstuffs will entail further amendment of these regulations and of food legislation generally. The Food Safety Advisory Committee is at present considering proposals for amending legislation and other measures necessary to give effect to the directive and will make recommendations as soon as possible. Approximately 90-100 environmental health officers are currently engaged in food inspection duties. I do not envisage that implementation of the directive will entail appointment of additional staff by health boards.
