SIU code of practice flawed, says IFA
But the IFA said the measures are fundamentally flawed and called for a properly negotiated and agreed document.
The SIU is part of the controls system in place to ensure that the Department’s strategy is to ensure that the highest standards of food safety, animal health and welfare are achieved.
It operates from time to time in conjunction with the gardaí in the investigation of a wide range of activities including suspected breaches of national and EU legislation.
The code of practice sets out the procedures applied by the SIU with regard to its general conduct in the course of an investigation. It also sets out the rights and expectations of those being investigated by the unit.
But the code has been sharply criticised by the IFA, which claimed there is a lot of unease and concern about the way the SIU carry out its work and its methods of operation in the farming community.
Deputy president Ruaidhrí Deasy said the code does not require the Department to produce prima facie evidence or provide adequate notice, lacks proportionality and was neither discussed or agreed with the IFA.
Mr Deasy said the government should not be using law introduced under emergency situations when no emergency exists.
He said he was particularly concerned with the continuing powers of the SIU on entry, search and seizure.
He also said the IFA does not condone wrong doers in farming or the food production chain. But farmers, like all other citizens, have basic rights.
Fine Gael spokesperson Billy Timmins, TD, welcomed the code of practice, particularly a section relating to all those subject to investigation or directly or indirectly affected.
The code states that they will be treated fairly, lawfully and with respect during the course of the investigation and that there should be a presumption of innocence.
