July 22nd 2014

ICSA beef chairman Edmond Phelan has said that Bord Bia’s defence of the Quality Assured Scheme is misplaced.

“We have no dispute with Bord Bia, but farmers are simply not seeing the benefits of this scheme,” said Mr. Phelan.

“Despite all the requirements that farmers must meet to participate in the scheme, it is being abused by processors and retailers in an effort to extract better margins.”

Mr. Phelan also refuted criticism of ICSA’s stance from Meat Industry Ireland. “The major act of irresponsibility here has been the undermining of bull beef from the suckler herd. If meat processors want farmers’ support, it’s in their own hands – be fair and transparent in relation to QAS/QPS payments.”