Ferris calls on Minister to address pig sector 'crisis'

Sinn Féin spokesperson on agriculture Martin Ferris has today called on Minister for Agriculture Mary Coughlan to take immediate steps to address what he refers to as "the crisis" affecting Irish pig producers.

The Kerry North TD was speaking prior to meeting an IFA delegation who are in Dublin to draw attention to the issue.

"It is clear that pig producers are experiencing great difficulties at the moment," said Ferris.

"Many producers are currently operating at a loss and it has been estimated that up to 30% are under threat of being forced out of business.

"Given the value of the sector and the fact that 7,000 people are employed, it is vital that steps are taken to address the crisis.

"One of the key factors is that producers are faced with feed prices that have risen sharply over the past year. That has not been compensated for by any increase in the price paid to producers by the processors. These are both issues that require urgent attention."