21/03/2014

FF Backs Calls For Beef Industry Regulator

Fianna Fáil has backed calls by the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association for the appointment of a regulator for the beef industry.

The farmers association claim that the appointment of a regultor would create a more equitable balance of power between the farmer and the processor.

"The beef sector is an integral part of the Irish Agri-Food industry and is worth €2bn a year to the economy. However, over the past 12 months we have witnessed a collapse in bull beef prices with factories shifting the goal posts on producers", Fianna Fáil’s Agriculture spokesperson Éamon Ó Cuív said.

Adding: "Beef producers are being penalised by processors who are changing specifications of age and weight and refusing to slaughter cattle. This has caused prices to plummet.

"If the government is serious about achieving the Food Harvest 2020 targets for the beef industry and protecting the national herd it needs to establish a beef regulator to balance the powers of processors and retailers."

(MH/IT)

Related Irish News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.

27 March 2014
Govt 'Must Act' To Protect Beef Prices
The government must take urgent measures to prevent the collapse of beef prices, Sinn Féin's spokesperson on rural development Trevor Ó Clochartaigh has said. "The current pricing situation is damaging the Irish farming industry," Senator Ó Clochartaigh commented.
28 February 2024
Gaming Business Ideas To Start In Ireland
Are you passionate about gaming and considering turning your hobby into a profitable business in Ireland? You're in luck! The gaming industry is booming, and many opportunities are waiting for you. Here are ten gaming business ideas that could be your ticket to success in this exciting field. 1.
27 March 2012
China To Reconsider Irish Beef Imports
As a result of Enda Kenny’s trade mission to China the ban on Irish beef imports could be lifted as early as next year.
24 September 2014
Govt Urged To Take Action To Defend Beef Farmers
Sinn Féin has called on the government to take action to defend beef farmers, "before our industry is destroyed by the action of unaccountable beef barons".
16 January 2019
Taoiseach Should Promote Irish Beef Sector-FF
Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has been slammed by Fianna Fáil for comments about eating less red met which are believed to have angered beef farmers across Ireland.