DEAR SIR: The time for a beef regulator is NOW. The incoming government needs to immediately introduce an independent beef regulator fortified with legislative powers.

At the minute, Irish beef farmers, despite having a world-class product, are again being left to drift. Beef farmers are subsidising their output by €1/kg and losing.

Even though demand for Irish beef is increasing, the price paid by meat processors to beef farmers is decreasing.

In my view, the actions of some processors to import beef will adversely affect Irish beef pricing and this needs to be examined. Are these actions taken to deliberately cut the price paid to Irish beef farmers? Why are meat processors choosing to import beef from Poland?

Task force

The Beef Market Task Force, when reconvened, needs to ensure the attendance of the CEOs of the five main meat processing companies.

Their absence, despite invitations extended by the DAFM, is difficult to understand, particularly in light of the engagement by the leading retailers since 9 January.

Price paid for beef to our farmers should be rising and not falling, as demand nationally and internationally is skyrocketing.

For example, retail demand for beef in the UK has increased by 150% and we export 50% of our beef to them.

Ideally, Bord Bia will step up to the mark and realise the opportunities presented by international demand, so that the future of beef farmers’ markets are realised and actively grown.

It is envisaged that the appointment of an independent beef regulator will manage such issues going forward, when appointed.

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