Steps to resolve industrial dispute
It met with the Civil and Public Service Union, representing clerical officers on strike in five counties, and Department of Agriculture and Food officials at Government Buildings on Thursday evening.
Further contact is expected on Monday in a bid to find a solution to the 11-week-old dispute over promotional outlets in DAF’s local offices.
ICMSA president Pat O’Rourke said the industrial action continues to cause serious disruption to farmers around the country.
They are unable to move, sell or send cattle to slaughter because of the administrative hold up in issuing cattle cards. They are also awaiting payments and approvals under various schemes.
“It is encouraging news that there has been some progress in bringing the disputing parties to the table for talks. However, we would encourage both sides to come to an agreement as a matter of urgency,” he said.
The ICMSA leader said Agriculture Minister Joe Walsh must move to to re-establish essential services with regard to animal movement, payments and scheme approval.
Mr O’Rourke said the level of hardship being experienced by farmers is increasing by the day.
