MEPs take contrasting views on Bord Bia controversy
Two MEP have taken contrasting stances on the controversy surrounding Bord Bia chair Larry Murrin.
Speaking at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Ireland Midlands-North West MEP Barry Cowen said it was time for Ireland to move on from the controversy.
Murrin, who is also CEO of Dawn Farm Foods, has been criticised because the company sourced some of its meat from Brazil last year.
Cowen said he found the events surrounding Bord Bia "deeply regrettable", particularly against the backdrop of recent decisions, including the extension of Ireland nitrates derogation and the securing of key Mercosur safeguard amendments
Stating that “the facts are clear”, he went on to say: “The Chair of Bord Bia has confirmed that less than 1% of beef sourced by his company was Brazilian.”
Cowen said Murrin had explained that this was done for “contingency supply in global contracts - a legal, regulated and standard practice”.
“But that explanation hasn’t stopped a personalised campaign being launched against him,” he added.
“The whole episode also lays bare a contradiction: condemnation of tiny imports of Brazilian beef while relying on Mercosur grain every day for our livestock.”
He said the controversy meant focus was lost on “real issues like CAP reform, trade volatility and farm incomes”.
“It’s beyond time for all parties to come to the table and resolve this responsibly - including through increased farmer representation on governance boards, if necessary. Because current divisiveness is helping no one."
Meanwhile MEP Ciaran Mullooly told the parliament that food safety, labelling standards, and public trust are now at a critical juncture.
Mr Mullooly said: "Never before was the issue of food safety and food labelling more critical. Nestlé are recalling infant formula products in multiple countries as we speak. Some babies have already become ill.”
Turning directly to the situation unfolding in Ireland, Mr Mullooly stated:
“In Ireland, farmers are occupying the headquarters of Bord Bia, a state food body tonight, supposed to represent Irish production and Irish standards. Yet its chairman is bringing in Brazilian beef and chicken into Europe, despite clear evidence of the use of deadly antibiotics in their Mercosur country.”
Mr Mullooly told parliament that farmers’ concerns are legitimate: “Farmers are justifiably angry at double standards.
Emphasising the importance of transparency for consumers, Mr Mullooly said:
“Consumers need clarity. They should not have to study small print. If trust is undermined, we will all suffer.”