Processors unhappy with decoupling

MEAT processors yesterday described the Government’s decision to opt for full decoupling of livestock premia in Ireland as disappointing.

However, Bord Bia said the decision will lead to improved market transparency, clearer signals to producers and the opportunity for the Irish beef industry to build on its strengths in the European marketplace.

Cormac Healy, the spokesman for the Irish Meat Association, said that having played a central role in negotiating partial decoupling options into the final CAP reform package, the Irish Government should have followed through with a phased introduction of decoupling.