Call for new emphasis on agriculture and food

ONE of the key players in the agri-food sector has called for a new emphasis on agriculture and food as a means of delivering sustainable economic growth.

“This current crisis presents a great opportunity to reflect the importance of farming and food in future government policy,” said Tom O’Mahony, chief executive of the agri services group, Origin Enterprises.

Speaking to the Irish Examiner, Mr O’Mahony said it’s forgotten that agriculture and food accounts for 14% of the economy, with the value of food production worth €25bn, including €8bn in exports.