Ministers step up pressure for action on export refunds

Pressure was stepped up today on Defra Minister Mr Hilary Benn MP to be pro-active with the European Commission by requesting the re-introduction of export refunds for dairy products.

With concern heightening over low milk prices the Agriculture Minister, Michelle Gildernew MP MLA, and the Finance Minister, Nigel Dodds OBE MP MLA, went to London to put their case directly to Mr Benn at the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Their move follows correspondence with both Minister Benn and the Prime Minister.

Minister Gildernew said: “We all recognise that the price which dairy farmers are now receiving for their milk is not sustainable and that action is needed urgently to help them in these difficult times. Otherwise many of them may go out of business. In recognition of this serious financial situation we are calling for more imaginative and creative action, similar to that provided for the wider economy, to address the crisis in the dairy sector.”

Minister Dodds said: “The dairy sector is one of the most important sectors of the local agricultural industry. I feel strongly that it needs support at present and am working hard, along with other Executive Ministers, to try and change both the UK and EU stance on export refunds. There is unity across the board on this matter – the plight of our dairy farmers needs to be recognised and addressed.”

Minister Gildernew also met a delegation from Dairy UK in Belfast this morning.

Notes to Editors

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