News Releases for December 2003
December 29, 2003
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Hoeven Emphasizes Support For Beef Industry
BISMARCK, N.D. - Following a meeting with North Dakota livestock industry officials and ranchers regarding the recent bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) discovery in Washington State, Gov. John Hoeven today reiterated his confidence in the safety of the nation’s beef supply and the investigative process underway by state and federal agencies.
“I remain confident in the safety of our nation’s beef supply and that the industry is doing everything possible to continue to ensure the safety of that supply,” Hoeven said. “As I stated earlier, my family and I will continue to eat beef and I encourage others to do the same.
“The industry’s food safety system works like it was designed to because of the early detection and quick response by the USDA and FDA,” Hoeven said. “These cautionary measures further instill confidence in the integrity of the system and the food supply.”
Hoeven has been in contact with governors from Minnesota, South Dakota, Nebraska and Montana to discuss ways to generate support for the beef industry, and will contact other governors, as well. “The beef industry is a major force in the region, and it’s important we support it. So, along with other governors, I encourage people to continue to enjoy beef when dining out or eating in.”
The Governor met with ranchers and officials of the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association, R-CALF United Stock Growers of America, the North Dakota Farm Bureau, and the Farmers Union, and Senator Byron Dorgan, Congressman Earl Pomeroy and Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson.
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