Bord Bia - 'We believe strongly that conversation - not conflict - is the only way forward'

A statement from Bord Bia to the Leitrim Observer has said that it "reaffirms commitment to farmers, quality standards and open dialogue."

The statement said that Irish farmers and growers work hard to maintain the high standards demanded by consumers and customers in Ireland and our many export markets.

"In that context, the questions that have arisen in recent weeks about imports, standards and fairness are completely understandable. It is important that these issues are discussed with facts, context, and respect. We believe strongly that conversation - not conflict - is the only way forward. Therefore, we want to address the misinformation and concerns that have been raised in recent weeks."

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It went on to say that Bord Bia’s Quality Assurance programmes are "fundamental to farmers’ livelihoods. They are trusted by consumers and critical to Ireland’s reputation and success overseas. Recent concerns around imports have placed a spotlight on Quality Assured produce. In that context, facts matter. The Bord Bia Quality Mark applies only to Irish farmed produce. It cannot be used on imported products."

The statement said that Bord Bia has a robust monitoring programme in place to oversee the use of it's Quality Mark and sanctions are applied where misuse occurs. "These standards protect farmers by securing demand, maintaining customer confidence and supporting better returns. For example, because of these standards, Irish beef has secured access to over 100 of the EU’s top retail and foodservice customers who only buy quality assured beef."

It noted that audit criteria are set to meet customer requirements and legislation and farmer representatives hold important roles on advisory committees that agree the standards. "It is also important to clarify that the board and chair of Bord Bia do not set Quality Assurance criteria or make decisions on their implementation," it stated. 

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It said that Ireland is an export-led food nation that exports food and drink to over 180 countries around the world. "Trade works both ways, and many Irish food and drink companies rely on some imported ingredients as part of modern global supply chains. These products are not Bord Bia Quality Assured and do not carry the Bord Bia Quality Mark. This does not replace or undermine Quality Assured Irish produce. It reflects the reality of trade and how global food systems operate."

It noted that there also been commentary about the management and leadership of Bord Bia. "The chair is not the “head of Bord Bia”. The organisation is led by a CEO and senior leadership team responsible for day-to-day operations. The chair and board members are not involved in operational decisions; the chair’s role is to lead the board and ensure its effectiveness, while the board is collectively responsible for directing Bord Bia’s activities. Chairs are appointed for their experience of international markets, governance and the global food industry - experience that supports Bord Bia’s export mission on behalf of farmers and the wider sector. While the role allows for fees, the current chair has always waived them and receives no salary or pension."

The statement said that Bord Bia respects the right to peaceful protest and for almost two weeks, "we have facilitated the presence of protestors at our place of work and engaged consistently in good faith to seek a resolution. Essential deliveries, including food and medicines, continue to be facilitated. Protestors have the option to leave at any time and have been repeatedly requested to do so."

It concluded: "Finally, we sincerely wish to move past the current impasse, from which no one is benefitting. We are eager to work together to resolve this issue in the best interests of Irish farmers and the wider agri-food sector."