Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon has called a meeting of key agri-food stakeholders to address the recent furore surrounding Larry Murrin's position as chair of Bord Bia.

This comes as the Irish Farmers' Association (IFA) enters into day 16 of its protest at Bord Bia headquarters in Ballsbridge, Dublin, seeking the removal of Murrin as chair.

The Minister acknowledged that there has been significant debate in recent weeks around Bord Bia, quality assurance schemes and how they operate in practice for farmers.

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"I believe there is a real opportunity now for constructive dialogue to address the specific issues that have been raised and, importantly, to improve the experience for farmers while protecting the integrity and value of our quality assurance systems," the Minister said.

The Minister said the objective is to ensure quality assurance schemes are future-proofed and continue to deliver tangible benefits for farmers and for Ireland’s agri-food sector.

"These schemes are critical to maintaining market access and consumer confidence, but they must also work fairly and effectively for farmers on the ground,” the Minister added.

CAP

The proposed meeting will also provide an opportunity to discuss wider priorities for the year ahead, including CAP post-2027 and EU budget negotiations, water quality and the nitrates derogation, animal disease challenges, bluetongue, supports for generational renewal and improving health and safety standards on farms.

According to the Minister, the discussions will directly inform the mid-term review of Food Vision 2030, currently being undertaken by the Department.

“Engagement with stakeholders is essential as we review Food Vision 2030 and plan for the next phase of agricultural policy. I want early, meaningful engagement and a clear focus on practical outcomes,” he added.

All stakeholders have been contacted with a view to meeting by the end of this week.