125 Mr. Hilliard asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the plans, if any, he has to increase the export refund payment in order to strengthen the marketing of beef cattle. [6811/96]

In view of the very serious situation in the beef industry, arising from the BSE problems in the UK, I am pursuing every means possible to ensure that the income situation of our beef producers is protected and our processors are allowed to trade competitively on all international markets.

My Department's delegate at tomorrow's meeting of the EU Beef Management Committee will seek the immediate introduction of measures in order to provide adequate cattle prices for our producers and allow for the orderly trading of our cattle and beef. I am also seeking to have all third country markets restored both through an EU wide approach and through direct contact with the countries involved.