Meat association welcomes end to protests

The Irish Meat Association has welcomed the stand down of protestors outside the plants in recent weeks.

Speaking today, the Chief Executive Mr. John Smith said that normal market reality would now take the rightful place in the business relationship between farmers and meat factories.

He says that recent protests blocked the industry's ability to service existing customers and that farmers and companies alike have now got the difficult task of repairing the damage done.

Mr. Smith insists that the competitive market on the international marketplace is now becoming tougher.

Furthermore, the head of the meat association warns that competition from South American beef producers is now a major concern.

90% of all Irish cattle are bought by foreign buyers. However, the only takers outside of Europe are Russia.

Trading with Egypt, recently disrupted over BSE scares, has still not resumed as of yet.