| Reacting to the publication of the agri-food report by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, IFA President John Bryan said the report highlights the importance of the sector to the economy in terms of jobs and exports. Mr Bryan noted that the report identified the power of the major retailers as a negative factor currently affecting the agri-food sector. “The recommendation for a forum of suppliers and producers does not go far enough. IFA has insisted that a Code of Practice to regulate the multiples must be backed up by legislation and an Ombudsman who would have statutory powers.” The report also highlights the need to reduce business costs, including bureaucracy, energy and waste. “The potential of the sector identified in Food Harvest 2020 will be undermined if we do not restore our competitiveness.” |
Friday, 01 October 2010 07:31