ICOS hits out at EU dairy refund cuts

Ireland: The co-ops’ national umbrella body ICOS has again outlined the dairy sector’s strong opposition to the European Commission’s ongoing reductions in EU dairy market supports.

President Padraig Gibbons said the Commission’s decision to cut butter (-5.2%) and SMP (-20%) export refunds on July 14 was excessive as it severely reduces EU export competitiveness.

He said repeated cuts in refunds are very disruptive for EU exporters.