Meat industry welcomes conclusion of beef talks

Meat Industry Ireland (MII) today (Sunday 15th September) welcomed the conclusion of the beef talks which resulted in an agreement, signed up to by all parties.
 
We recognise the challenges all involved in our industry face.  The agreed package contains significant positive financial initiatives by MII members, in areas of specifications, bonuses and supply chain transparency.  
 
The Agreement requires that all protests and illegal blockades cease immediately so that normal processing can recommence, employees can return to work, farmers can sell their animals, and efforts can be made to rebuild customer confidence.
 
This has been an extremely damaging episode for all stakeholders in the beef and sheep sectors. It has occurred at a time of significant and continuing challenges in the EU beef market. It is of particular concern given the closeness of Brexit and the major implications that a No-deal outcome presents for our sector. 
 
Throughout the disruption over the last seven weeks, MII members have maintained close contact with their farmer suppliers with cattle to sell and with customers to reassure them of our continued commitment to being best in class at servicing customers requirements globally.
 
MII expresses its gratitude to Minister Creed and to the Department Secretary General and their team for their efforts in securing this agreement.