Departmental Correspondence

Tuesday, 29 September 2026

Ceisteanna (869)

Ken O'Flynn

Ceist:

869. Deputy Ken O'Flynn asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 66553/26 of 22 September 2026, the reason Ireland did not submit an objection, observation, comment or reservation through the world trade organization or European Commission notification processes in February 2024 in respect of the UK folic acid fortification measures, given that her Department's correspondence to the European Commission in September 2025 raised concerns from Irish stakeholders; whether an assessment was prepared at the time of notification; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [68762/26]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Health

Further to my response to the Deputy’s Questions Nos. 66575/26, 66573/26, 66572/26, 66564/26, 66553/26 and 66551/26 dated 22 September, my Department engaged with the European Commission regarding the implications of the UK regulatory changes for Irish food business operators in September 2025. The purpose of the engagement with the European Commission was to discuss practical issues raised by Irish industry stakeholders, regarding sourcing, implementation and compliance with EU legislation.

My Department did not consider it was necessary to submit an objection, observation, comment or reservation through the world trade organisation or European Commission notification processes in February 2024 in respect of the UK folic acid fortification measures, based on an evaluation of the information which was available at that time.