ICSA warn of higher food prices

MEAT factories need to get secure contracts with retailers and source a good supply of cattle, if export markets are to be maintained, the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association said yesterday.

ICSA Beef Committee chairman Seán Scully said everything points towards higher food prices and food scarcities. Factories must pay farmers properly to secure a consistent supply. Traditionally, there are highs and lows in supply for seasonal reasons but also because of the common practice of both factories and retailers in undermining the prices paid to suppliers.

“Factories and retailers are causing these gaps in supply as farmers struggle to remain viable,” he said.