Groups welcome proposals but stress need for action

REACTION:FARM AND food groups gave a broad welcome to the Food Harvest 2020 report proposals, while stressing the importance of implementing the recommendations.

Ibec’s Irish Dairy Industries Association, which represents dairy producers, said the Government must now focus on removing the remaining barriers that hinder growth in the sector.

Senior executive Michael Barry said the vision for growth was credible if backed by the right Government policies. He called for the setting up of a new group, chaired by the Taoiseach’s department, to bring together all departments whose policies affect competitiveness in the agri-food industry.

Irish Farmers’ Association president John Bryan, a member of the committee behind the report, said Irish farmers were ready to play their part in grasping real opportunities that had been identified.

He said the targets for export growth and primary output were achievable, and now the Government must create the appropriate policy and competitive environment to realise the industry’s potential. “The cornerstone of the 2020 strategy is to increase production at producer level across all sectors. Government support in assisting competitiveness and supporting vital farm schemes is critical for this to happen.”

Fine Gael’s Andrew Doyle said the 209 recommendations were laudable, but the real test lay in implementing the report: “The primary producer is under serious pressure, and if we are going to move food quality to the centre of the debate we have to make sure that the family farm survives.”

Labour agriculture spokesman Seán Sherlock welcomed the strategy, and said any proposals helping to unlock agriculture sector potential should be welcomed. “Across party lines, there is broad agreement on the urgent need for expansion of the agri-food sector, the creation of jobs and the protection of rural areas.”

The Green Party’s Minister for Horticulture, Ciarán Cuffe, said the report identified green initiatives farmers and food producers could benefit from, including a greater emphasis on certifiably sustainable production, horticulture and organic produce, forestry, farmers’ markets and farm gate shops. He said very low margins had led to profound issues.

“A fresh look at how to develop this essential industry that supplies fruit and vegetable to our tables is required.”