July 11th 2014

ICSA officers met Northern Ireland Agriculture Minister Michelle O’Neill on Thursday and president Patrick Kent later described the discussions as productive and positive.

“We welcome Michelle O’Neill’s interest in the ongoing beef crisis,” said Mr. Kent. “ICSA took the opportunity to highlight to the Minister the issue of so-called nomad cattle, which is a very serious concern for our members. The Northern Ireland live export trade has always been a key aspect of the Irish beef industry, and the artificial barriers to this trade now being put in place by meat processors cannot continue.”

“”The issue of cross-border cattle exports is one of many difficulties facing farmers in the beef sector, and the Minister’s interest in resolving these concerns was clear. We look forward to ongoing positive interaction with her in the future.”