SDLP MLA for Mid Ulster, Patsy McGlone, has welcomed a constructive virtual discussion between representatives of the Ulster Famers’ Union (UFU) and Irish Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue. The online meeting, which was facilitated by the Mid Ulster MLA, involved UFU office bearers, chief executive and beef and lamb policy officer and took place at the end of December.
Mr McGlone said, “I was glad to be able to assist the virtual meeting between representatives of the UFU and Minister McConalgue.
“All-island dialogue on areas of common interest will be more important than ever as we get used to the new post-Brexit arrangements on agricultural trade and support.
“As well as the need to ensure that there are no invisible barriers introduced to the trade of agricultural products on the island of Ireland, there was also discussion on access to Bord Bia’s Quality Assurance schemes.
“In the North, there must be progress on the implementation of the necessary verification system to enable farmers here to join the application to the European Union for a PGI for ‘grass fed Irish beef’.
“I will continue to work with farmers’ representatives and government across the island of Ireland to ensure sustainable success for the agriculture sector.”
ENDS
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