ICOS President Bertie O’Leary has warmly welcomed the appointment of Phil Hogan as the next EU Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development wishing him every success for his tenure in the post.
ICOS looks forward to working closely with him in shaping the future success of Irish agriculture and the co-operative business model, which is at the heart of this success story.
Key issues will confront the new commissioner presenting many opportunities and farmers and their co-operatives, including market volatility, the end of dairy quotas, CAP implementation, trade deals research and innovation plans, among other matters.”
O’Leary committed that ICOS would be a positive force in helping the Commissioner to address these challenges.
ICOS has had a full time presence in Brussels for over 40 years and is seen as the key point of contact for Irish Agri industry in the European Capital.
O’Leary also welcomed the appointment of Limerick man Peter Power as the Commissioner’s Chef de Cabinet and Tipperary man Dermot Ryan who was a key player in the delivery of the most recent CAP reform.
“Their trade experience will be a considerable asset and will contribute to a better understanding of Ireland’s position on agriculture and rural affairs throughout the Commission