National Beef Association suspends director

The National Beef Association has launched an internal investigation into the conduct of director Kim-Marie Haywood.

Ms Haywood was suspended on full pay on 31 October pending the outcome of the investigation, the association said on Tuesday (3 November).

The move is the latest twist in an ongoing saga that saw the association’s entire board resign en mass at the organisation’s AGM last month.

A review committee created at the AGM was “working hard to shape and restructure the organisation for the future,” said the association.

This work was being driven forward alongside the investigation into the recent conduct of Ms Haywood, said review committee chairman Hamish McBean.

“As of Monday 31st October, NBA Director Kim Haywood was suspended on full pay while an investigation into her recent conduct is carried out.

“We have contracted a third party human resources company to ensure this is done correctly and fairly.

Other members of staff were continuing within their roles and their “sustained hard work and commitment” was appreciated, said Mr McBean.

He added: “You will appreciate that we have to follow due process in this matter and cannot give any details while the investigation is under way.”

Mr McBean said he did not want the investigation to distract from the NBA’s work representing beef farmers, particularly on issues such as CAP reform.

“We also want to reiterate that the review committee is continuing in its task of ensuring a healthy and strong future for the NBA.

“The NBA has achieved much since its conception and, given its unique role in representing the sector, will continue to play a vital part and be a force to be reckoned with in the years to come,” he said.

Ms Haywood was unavailable for comment.