ICMSA: Coveney faces ‘baptism of fire’ in bid to protect beef industry

AGRICULTURE Minister Simon Coveney is facing a “baptism of fire” in his bid to protect Ireland’s beef industry against imports into the EU from South America, warns the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association (ICMSA).

With the Mercosur trade talks between the EU and South America edging closer and closer to an unwelcome conclusion for Irish farmers, ICMSA president Jackie Cahill has warned incoming Minister Coveney that Irish beef is facing a real and substantial threat.

He said this threat could undermine the agri-business sector’s ability to raise export levels and drive an economic recovery.