ICMSA claims EU’s abolition of dairy refunds will hinder recovery

THE Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association has accused the European Commission of taking a decision that could undermine any possibility of a recovery in the dairy markets.

Jackie Cahill, president, said last week’s decision by the EU Dairy Management Committee to abolish refunds on skim milk powder and reduce butter and whole milk powder refunds by 50% was absolutely scandalous.

It showed a complete lack of understanding of the problems facing dairy farmers, he said. Having wrecked the dairy sector though systematic mismanagement, the commission was now intent on undermining any possibility of a recovery.