Fianna Fáil TD for Wicklow, Pat Casey, says the Minister for Agriculture must immediately reconvene talks to address the continuing beef crisis.
He commented, “It is vital Minister Creed now reconvenes talks to address the continuing crisis in the Wicklow beef sector.
“I welcome the meeting that took place last night in Portlaoise to appoint spokespersons to represent protesting farmers in any reconvened talks. The Minister must now immediately reconvene talks between Meat Processors and these representatives along with representatives of the Beef Plan Movement and all farming organisations. It is also essential that talks on this occasion include retailer representatives.
“The continuing impasse is adding to the crisis in the beef sector and it is only through talks that progress on key issues can be made. New talks must comprehensively address issues such as the 30-month rule, 4 movement rule and the 70 day residency requirement.”
“An outcome of reconvened talks should also include a commitment from the Minister to seek additional market disturbance funding from the European Commission to address losses experienced by Wicklow farmers in recent months.
“The Minister needs to show leadership and bring all stakeholders through this crisis to an agreeable solution. Any continuation of the current situation will not improve the position of anyone involved in the beef sector,” he concluded.
