Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue acknowledged the “hurculean effort” made by the dairy sector during the COVID-19 pandemic at his first meeting of the Dairy Forum on Wednesday.

The Minister told the forum which includes farm bodies, dairy processing sectors, banking and state agency representatives, that recent efforts reflect the commitment and collective work which characterises the dairy sector in Ireland.

Play its part

Environmental performance of the sector was discussed at the meeting with the minister calling for efforts on this front to be maintained.

I believe that we can collectively rise to the many challenges facing us

Minister McConalogue said: “We will be asked to increase our ambitions in terms of mitigating impacts on the environment in the future. This is an ask that is being put on all sectors of the economy and agriculture will have to play its part.

“I believe that we can collectively rise to the many challenges facing us and build on opportunities for future sustainable growth. I look forward to seeing continuous, strong engagement from the group as work progresses.”

The forum included a discussion on the current market situation, calf welfare, an update on the Agri-Food Strategy 2030 and access to finance.

Presentations from both the Department of Agriculture and the Offices of the Revenue Commissioners were given on Brexit.