By Chantalé Fletcher
THE Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries is not directly responsible for addressing reports of contaminated meats as this is a public health matter.
Minister of Trade and Industry Paula Gopee-Scoon made the statement in the Senate on Wednesday.
She was answering a question on behalf of the Minister of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries Clarence Rambharat on the necessary steps that will be taken to protect consumers, given the recent reports of dairy farmers warning consumers about the purchase of contaminated meat.
Gopee-Scoon said, “The Animal Production and Health Division of the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries will normally receive reports of diseases in live animals only.
“At present, there were no reports received, however, there were no formal reports from the dairy farmers as it relates to the possibility of contaminated meats on the market. The ministry was working with the Ministry of Health, specifically the Veterinary Public Health Division and working with farmers to ensure that the animals on the farm were healthy by routine inspection.”
She said that usually, if an animal was suspected in the Ministry of Agriculture, Land and Fisheries and the Ministry of Health would be alerted or vice versa to provide the necessary assistance as it relates to the treatment and disposal of carcasses when necessary.
In addition, Gopee-Scoon stated that proper disposal under strict protocols to ensure the suspected contaminated meat does not enter the market.
She said, “Specifically, the Consumer Affairs of the Ministry of Trade and Industry will also take the responsibility of further informing via social and print media of the particular circumstances of which you speak in terms of stolen meat.
“This was also the responsibility of the government to ensure the health and safety of the consumers.”
Mark then asked Gopee-Scoon whether she was aware of any investigation or inquiry by the Ministry of Health into the development of the possible contamination of meat on the market.
However, Gopee-Scoon responded yes.
She said, “The Ministry of Health is involved in researching the particular matter at hand and taking responsibility to ensure the public is aware of the particular circumstance.
“In the end, we want to ensure that no contaminated meat will reach the hands of the consumers.”
