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Farmers to target retailers in latest round of "peaceful protests" over beef prices

Farmers' protests are set to target retailers in an escalation of the row over beef prices. The B...
Stephen McNeice
Stephen McNeice

12.38 8 Sep 2019


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Farmers to target retailers in...

Farmers to target retailers in latest round of "peaceful protests" over beef prices

Stephen McNeice
Stephen McNeice

12.38 8 Sep 2019


Share this article


Farmers' protests are set to target retailers in an escalation of the row over beef prices.

The Beef Plan Movement said the "peaceful protests" will begin this evening.

Supermarket distribution centres in Dublin, Cork and Kildare are expected to see protests today and tomorrow.

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It comes as the second round of talks aimed at resolving the dispute between farmers and meat factories are due to get underway tomorrow.

Retailers will not be present for the talks, however, despite repeated requests from farmers that they be included.

Dermot O'Brien, chairman of the south-west branch of the Beef Plan Movement, said farmers are very tense and frustrated.

He said: "Retailers are refusing to engage in talks with the Beef Plan Movement.

"[We're] seeking discussions on a how a fairer share of the retail price can be handed back down to the primary producer, so the primary producer can meet their costs."

Mr O'Brien added: "All the main retailers will have protesters outside their doors in the coming days.

"Lidl will be exempt from the protest, as they have clearly said they do not require market specifications."

Meanwhile, the Oireachtas Agriculture Committee has said it is postponing a planned meeting with the Agriculture Minister Michael Creed to allow for the latest round of talks.

Committee chair Pat Derring said: “Given the protracted nature of the dispute, and the impact that it is having on the beef sector, it is important that that the stakeholder discussions are allowed to proceed without any possible distractions."

He suggested it would 'not be helpful' for the committee to be meeting at the same time as talks reconvene.

Main image: File photo of protesting farmers. Photograph: Eamonn Farrell/RollingNews.ie

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