217 Mr. Hyland asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Forestry the number of political contacts with the Iranian Government following the visit to Ireland of Iranian veterinary officials in view of the importance of beef exports from Ireland to third country markets, and in view of the progress made by other EU countries in negotiating Protocols for beef exports to Iran; the requirements of the Iranian Government in relation to the reopening of the market for Irish beef; the efforts, if any, which have made by him to comply with these requirements; the current position on agreeing a Protocol for beef export to Iran; and if he will make a statement on the matter.[11233/97]

Since I received the Iranian veterinary delegation in October last, a number of political contacts have been made with the Iranian authorities. I met an Iranian parliamentary delegation on 14 November and I availed of the opportunity to discuss the current restrictions. Furthermore, the Taoiseach has discussed the issue both with the Iranian Vice President and the Deputy Foreign Minister. In addition there has been very regular contact through the Irish Embassy in Tehran and the Iranian Embassy in this country.

The Iranian market is volatile and exports can vary widely from year to year. Nevertheless, I accord the highest priority to ensuring access for Irish beef to this important market and I am continuing to make strenuous efforts to have the restrictions lifted.

The current position is that discussions are continuing with a view to agreeing a mutually acceptable veterinary protocol.