Irish farmers embargo livestock sales
The meat market in Ireland is currently at a standstill following the decision by farmers to withhold the sale of cattle to the meat factories.
The decision was taken in protest at the government’s recent imposition of new price penalties. Speaking to the national farming press, Irish Farmers' Association (IFA) president, John Dillon, said the embargo would continue until they received ‘a viable price’ of EUR2.52/kg for R Grade cattle and the new pricing measures were abolished. IFA National Livestock chairman, Derek Deane, added that the current price was leaving many producers of winter cattle facing financial ruin.
In a separate development, Pat O'Rourke, president of the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers' Association has urged the Government to establish an independent audit of meat inspection and animal disease control procedures, to ensure that value for money is being delivered. The proposed audit would centre on disease control, eradication, veterinary and other inspections required in the food processing sector.
