Irish Eyes Aren't Smiling

Around 1,400 Irish workers have been laid off since the outbreak of the contaminated feed problem, and "thousands" more could be out of work by Christmas, say union leaders.

The largest lay-offs come at Rosderra Meats, where 850 workers have been affected, and given no date at which they can expect to return to work.

Meanwhile the French Farm ministry report that 1,600mt of potentially contaminated Irish pork had already entered the country before the problem was highlighted.

"Let's be honest, a part of that has probably already been eaten," said a Ministry spokesman.

"Let's be honest, you're French, so we don't really treat you as a priority," said Nogger.