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IFA president Tim Cullinan held a meeting with Boortmalt CEO Yvan Schaepman this week to discuss current issues in the Irish malting barley sector. The meeting follows on from the blockade on a shipment of malt at Waterford port last week.
Cullinan said: “In this environment, growers will react angrily to any actions which could undermine the sector. Considerable investment has been made in the malting barley crop again this season.”
The IFA has said it acknowledges the negative impact which COVID is having on the drinks sector, but emphasises that Boortmalt must maximise their intake of Irish barley.
Huge pressure
Cullinan informed the Boortmalt CEO that tillage farmers are under huge pressure this year due to poor yields and broken harvest conditions.
“All stakeholders in the Irish drinks industry must recognise the ongoing effort and commitment which growers have put into producing quality malting barley. This has seen an expansion in the area sown.”
Commitment to growers
The IFA highlighted Boortmalt’s long-term commitment to Irish growers in doubling their malting capacity in Athy, Co Kildare.
Schaepman acknowledged the current issues in the sector and reiterated the company’s commitment to use 100% Irish malting barley when possible.
“Despite the current market environment, it is the company’s intention to maximise our intake of malting barley, subject to complying with our food safety and quality specifications this harvest.
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