Coveney calls for action on impact of Russian import restrictions

The European Commission has been urged by Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney to take prompt action to address the difficulties caused by the Russian import restrictions on agri-food products.

Describing the Commission’s response to date as swift, he said the measures put in place in the Common Agricultural Policy reform package have equipped the EU with the tools to deal with crises and emergencies.

Describing the closure of the Russian market as a matter of significant concern for Irish producers, Mr Coveney said Ireland’s direct exports to Russia account for around 2.5% of our overall exports in the agri-food area.