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3.18 Deputy A.E. Jeune of the Minister for Health and Social Services regarding the current legislation and training provision for food hygiene in the Island. Would the Minister inform Members whether she considers the current legislation and training provision for food hygiene in the Island to be adequate and appropriate and, if not, advise what action, if any, is being taken to address this matter?
The Deputy of Trinity (The Minister for Health and Social Services):
No, the current legislation relating to food hygiene is not as robust or as extensive as it should be.
Deputy A.E. Jeune :
And the rest of the question, what action is being taken?
The Deputy of Trinity :
The department is working with law drafting officers to develop new regulations which will both consolidate and modernise existing legislation. This does include bringing new controls in for food of animal origin, be it meat, fish, shellfish and dairy products, et cetera. It will also bring in statutory requirements for the training of all food handlers and for the introduction of food safety management systems in premises where food is brought, eaten or prepared.
- Deputy A.E. Jeune :
When can we expect to see that legislation being brought to the Assembly?
[16:30]
The Deputy of Trinity :
The drafting of this legislation has been delayed due to the changeover in staff in the department and the resulting lack of expertise required to deliver this complex issue, because it is complex. This has been addressed but I cannot give any timescales.
- Deputy A.E. Jeune :
I find that amazing. Will the Minister please ensure that something is done to bring this legislation up to date?
The Deputy of Trinity :
Yes, I do know that it is important but it is a very complex matter and we have not had the perfect resource for the department. But that has changed and it will come in as soon as possible, but it is working with the Law Officers' Department as well, I shall try and do it as soon as I can, but I have no wish to give a timetable.