The delegation, led by UFU President Kenneth Sharkey discussed a wide range of topics.
The Minister listened to the concerns of the industry representatives on a number of issues including: Public Procurement of local pork and bacon,
promotion of local pork and bacon, statutory country of origin labelling for pork and bacon, temporary suspension of pig meat inspection charges, private Storage Aid for pig meat, and Export Refunds.
The Minister agreed to consider the issues raised and in particular to write to both the DEFRA and DAFF ministers to seek their support in pursuing the European Commission’s agreement to Export Refunds.
Following the meeting the Minister said: “I fully appreciate the current difficulties facing farmers here, but we must recognise the situation is not confined to the North, as producers in the rest of these islands are facing similar problems, I fully intend to support the local industry in every way I can.”
The Minister also acknowledged the great work currently being undertaken by the Ulster Pork and Bacon Forum and advised that she recently met with the senior management team of a leading pork processor to learn of difficulties and had written to every supermarket in the North about rising costs for producers because of feed prices.
The cessation of movement data recording at Markets and Meat plants by DARD staff was also discussed. The Minister listened to the concerns of the Industry and explained why this action was necessary.
Notes to Editors:
- All media enquiries to DARD Press Office, tel: 028 9052 4619. Out of hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440, and your call will be returned.
