DEAR EDITOR

A considerable amount of commentary has been made about the supposed loss of ‘good will’ and political capital engendered by the ‘sit-in’ at Bord Bia. Comparing this event with the ‘sit on the steps’ of 1966/67, my conclusion is that one must take the long view.

The 1966/67 debacle resulted in a change of attitude by Government and NFA, which both decided to be more positive and work together on issues.

ADVERTISEMENT

As a result, 10 significant changes happened, which I would call the ‘fruits of the steps’: FBD Insurances, FBD Leisure, FBD Trust, Agri Aware, Irish Farm Accounts Co-op, IFFPG – recycling plastics, seven nationwide gaspipe agreements, the code of practice with ESB, similar with the game clubs (NARGC) and motorway agreements.

Each of these in turn have been of great value to farmers on the ground. The splendid supplements in the Irish Farmers Journal are an outstanding example of co-operation from Irish Farmers Journal/Agri Aware/IASTA engine rooms.

It will be very interesting to watch for the fruits of the ‘Bord Bia five’ who deserve our gratitude for their dedication and sacrifice.