The Clare Chair of the Beef Plan Movement has expressed doubt as to whether plans aimed at securing better incomes will be successful.
It comes as the Agriculture Minister has moved to reassure Clare farmers that the establishment of a Food Ombudsman Officer will be an importnat step in securing better prices.
Over a dozen local authority’s across the country have now passed motions calling for an independent meat regulator to be established, among them Clare County Council.
This week, elected representatives unanimously backed a call for a the position of a regulator to be created, and that this office be given substantial powers to protect farmers and to ensure they get fairer prices.
The Agriculture Minister today told Clare Fm that his plans for the introduction of a Food Ombudsman Officer will ensure transparency in the food chain.
Minister Charlie McConalogue says a public consultation process will be launched in the coming weeks, allowing people to put forward their ideas on how that position can positively influence change.
Insisting that he can’t interfere with prices, the Minister stated that achieving transparency will be an important, and effective, first step.
The Clare Chair of the Beef Plan Movement has expressed scepticism however.
Quilty farmer Joseph Woulfe believes a different approach needs to be taken so that farmers can earn a more sustainable income.
