Reinhold Stephanes, who was appointed last month, announced during the week that border patrol operations will be increased in Brazil in an effort to curb foot and mouth disease which has plagued the country for several years.

In 2005, 8,759 tonnes of Brazilian beef was imported directly into Ireland, but this is considered to be just a fraction of the real amount, as meat is imported indirectly through other European countries. For the last few years, the Food and Veterinary Office (FVO), an EU body responsible for food safety, has expressed concern about the quality of meat entering Europe from Brazil.

"Despite the so-called ban on Brazilian beef in 2006, the quantities of Brazilian beef coming on to the market has declined only marginally, " said Martin McMahon of the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers' Association (ICMSA).

"The Brazilian minister with direct responsibility has now publicly admitted to deficiencies? There is no part of Brazil from which beef can be imported with the necessary levels of safety."

The last outbreak of the disease occurred in Brazil in October 2005, but neighbouring countries Argentina and Bolivia have had outbreaks of foot and mouth in the last 12 months.

With Ireland continuing to import large amounts of beef from Brazil, McMahon said the situation is "a disaster waiting to happen".