MEP says "Hellim and Halloumi must have equal recognition"

[iancrumpy]

http://www.sarahludfordmep.org.uk/node/2067

On the MEP's web-site this report appeared on June 8th :
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London Liberal Democrat MEP Sarah Ludford has met with a delegation from North Cyprus to discuss equal treatment of Halloumi and Hellim cheese as regards EU recognition of protected-origin status.

Greek Cypriots applied for Halloumi cheese to be designated under the rules of Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) which ensure that the product can’t be imitated or reproduced. Some British products such as the English cheese Stilton have the same protection.

Sarah Ludford raised concerns with the European Commission regarding the potential discrimination that could occur towards producers of the cheese in North Cyprus, where a similar cheese is produced under the name Hellim. North Cyprus producers are now intending to make their own application for PDO status.

Sarah commented:

“It would be very unhelpful and divisive for the 2 cheeses to receive unequal treatment. The trade consequences for Hellim producers could be extremely harmful if they were locked out of markets because of special EU recognition of Halloumi.”

“The European Union has failed to deliver on its 2004 promise to help end isolation and encourage Turkish Cypriot economic development. The European Commission must not make matters worse by potentially enabling discrimination against Hellim.”
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[Mel7348]

Iancrumpy - I know this is a bit off topic. Have you read Helena Smiths article in the Guardian.co.uk today. In the business section. Presume she is in Nicossia for the EU Presidency handover.

Couldn't resist posting on the comments section. Was pleasantly surprised at 67 reecommends.

Angela