“Substantial updates” from the review into the beef sector being conducted by Grant Thornton are “planned for the next meeting” of the Beef Market Taskforce, according to Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue.
The minister confirmed the news in an exchange on the beef industry with Sinn Féin spokesperson for agriculture Matt Carthy earlier this week.
Speaking in the Dáil on Tuesday (November 3), the Cavan-Monaghan TD initially raised queries as to what Minister McConalogue’s views are on the 30-month age limit and four movement rules imposed by meat factories.
In his answer, the minister highlighted that both specifications “are a commercial matter and are not conditions imposed by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine”.
“It should be noted that certain third countries have imposed a 30 month age limit in respect of beef imports and that this is specified in certain veterinary health certificates which accompany beef exports to those countries,” he added.
Minister McConalogue noted that the review had been delayed by Covid-19 with consultants “unable to have the necessary engagements with retail customers, both domestically and in key export markets for Irish beef, as retailers were understandably preoccupied with ensuring the continuation of their supply chains”.
However, this work is back on track, the minister asserted.
“I very much value the work of the beef taskforce and it is a very appropriate forum in which to examine these issues.
In particular, the Grant Thornton report looking at the specifications and at the requirements of retailers and how that interfaces with processors and primary producers is really important.
“I look forward to receiving it and ensuring that it actually informs how we and the sector move forward,” Minister McConalogue concluded.