Although the Republic is a part of the European Union, consumers often feel decisions made in Brussels have little impact on their everyday life. On the contrary, many European proposals eventually make their way into Irish law.

In this regard, the new European Commissioner responsible for the Health and Consumer Protection portfolio - former attorney general Mr David Byrne - has identified food safety as his highest priority.

In a recent interview with the EC magazine Consumer Voice, he outlined his plans for the speed preparation of a white paper on food safety to bring existing measures up to the highest world standards. "Food safety policy should cover the whole spectrum, from animal feed to the table of the consumer, to promotion of safe food practices at producer or consumer level and promotion of a healthy diet," Mr Byrne said.

The Commissioner also hopes to put forward proposals on a number of other issues. He is particularly concerned about the increase in food-related allergies, resistance to antibiotics and the reduction in the number of children receiving vaccinations.

Many of his positions are dictated by provisions of the Amsterdam Treaty. "I also hope to act quickly on the new possibilities for high standards of quality and improved safety of human organs, blood and blood products as well as substances of human origin provided for specifically by the treaty," he said.

Consumers may obtain a free copy of Consumer Voice by writing to: European Commission, DG XXIV, 200 rue de la Loi, 1049 Brussels. Or, information may be obtained online at www.europa.eu.int/comm/dg24