Speaking at the 43rd annual Irish Grain and Feed Association (IGFA) annual dinner in Dublin on Friday night, Ruud Tijssens said a Brexit would also have an impact on the growth and recovery of the Irish economy.

“Despite Irish political independence, it is clear that the UK may still have a considerable impact on Ireland’s economy and role in Europe this year. Shortly we will likely see the Brexit referendum take place, which I’ve seen being called Ireland biggest ‘foreign policy challenge’,” Tijssens said in front of the 400-strong audience.

Tijssens, who is also a director with Agrifirm a Dutch co-operative with more than 17,500 farmer member, said he hopes the people of the UK vote with “wisdom”.

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“After a year that saw Ireland again as the eurozone country with the strongest growing economy, the UK Brexit could put this recovery at risk. Let’s wish the British people much wisdom and rationality before entering the voting booth to decide on a matter that could have such an important impact on Ireland. And while I touch upon the economy, I think you would all agree with me that if we could wish for one more thing in 2016, it would be for farmer’s prices to recover again,” he said.