IFA Urges Extension of Pig & Poultry COOL Rules

IRELAND - IFA President John Bryan has urged the Government to implement without delay new country-of-origin labelling for pig meat and poultry meat from the EU Commission, to safeguard producers’ livelihoods and to protect consumers.
calendar icon 30 November 2011
clock icon 2 minute read

John Bryan said the announcement by the EU Commission that country-of-origin would be extended to pig meat and poultry meat from next month was an important landmark in exposing imports that failed to meet the high standards on traceability and animal welfare adhered to by European producers.

Mr Bryan said: "For too long, producers outside Europe have avoided the scrutiny that applies to producers here. Compulsory country-of-origin will clarify in consumers’ minds what complies with the highest standards."

The IFA President said the Government must ensure the effective implementation of the regulations. "Producers who have campaigned for this will not tolerate any hold-up in setting up a robust policing system here," he said.

IFA Pigmeat Chairman Tim Cullinan said pig producers will expect the introduction of country-of-origin regulations to clear up the confusion that has allowed importers to pass off their products as Irish. He said,

Mr Cullinan said: "We will also expect greater returns from the market, as consumers will make informed decisions to buy Irish."

IFA Poultry Chairman Alo Mohan said poultry growers have pressed for this legislation and will be insisting that it is implemented in a vigorous manner.

Mr Mohan said: "Incomes of poultry growers have been under pressure from imports and this will help sustain local production."

© 2000 - 2024 - Global Ag Media. All Rights Reserved | No part of this site may be reproduced without permission.