Welcoming the announcement the Minister said, "I am delighted that Commissioner Fischer Boel has recognised the major difficulties facing pig producers right across the EU as a result of high feed prices and will now be bringing forward proposals to the Management Committee later this week to introduce export refunds for pigmeat carcases, cuts and bellies. I was left in no doubt following my meeting with the local pigmeat interests last week that this was an essential first step to try and restore some balance and stability to the sector and I am glad that the Commission has taken this decisive action."
The Minister added, "I hope that this marks a turning point for the sector and I will continue to monitor the situation closely over the coming weeks and months."
Notes to Editors:
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