What discussions Scottish ministers and officials have had with Irish ministers and officials regarding the continuation of minimum import …

The Scottish Government has had a continuing dialogue with Irish ministers and officials throughout the period when the minimum import price has remained in place.
Following the announcement of the commission’s interim review in March 2008, Scotland, the UK and Ireland prepared evidence to show that there was no case for a review of the measures. A joint paper was submitted to member states and the commission.
During the interim review, our dialogue focused on the preparation of evidence to support the continuance of the minimum import price. I met the relevant fisheries minister on 23 April 2008 to discuss the matter. A joint UK and Ireland paper was also sent to the commission on 22 May 2008. From mid-April, discussions have also focused on the commission’s proposal for a special monitoring mechanism following the repeal of the measures.