Fianna Fáil TD for Louth Erin McGreehan has called for meaningful dialogue between all stakeholders following the appearance of the Chair of Bord Bia before the Oireachtas Agriculture Committee.
Deputy McGreehan attended the hearing after ongoing engagement with farming families in Louth who have raised concerns in recent weeks.
Yesterday I attended the Oireachtas Committee hearing on Bord Bia. I felt it was important to be present, to hear directly what was said and to represent the farming families who have been raising their concerns with me.
Having listened to the discussion in full, Deputy McGreehan said she does not believe the appearance resolved the issues that have emerged.
She said the strength of feeling among farmers is both real and deeply personal.
Over recent weeks I have spoken to many farming families. The level of upset and anger is very real. For people whose livelihoods and futures depend on Ireland’s premium food reputation, this issue cuts deeply.
Deputy McGreehan acknowledged that time constraints applied during the hearing but said that legitimate questions remain unanswered, particularly in relation to the standards of Brazilian beef imports and the potential impact on Irish family farms.
She said her priority now is engagement across the sector.
The only way we get through this is by sitting down together and talking it through.
Deputy McGreehan also stressed the importance of unity within the farming sector at a time of wider pressures.
We are facing major challenges already, from disease threats such as Bluetongue to hugely important CAP negotiations that will shape farming for years to come. The last thing the sector needs is internal division at a time when unity and focus are essential.
She concluded by reiterating the need for structured and constructive dialogue.
Irish farmers are the foundation of our food reputation internationally. Protecting that reputation means rebuilding trust.
Now that positions have been set out, all sides must enter into constructive dialogue to restore confidence and find practical solutions.
