Irish boycott
26 April 2002
Irish boycott
IRISH cattle marts are being hit hard by a boycott by dealers and exporters in protest at foot-and-mouth rules which mean each animal can be sold at auction only once every 30 days.
Richard Harnett of Castleisland mart in Co Kerry said only 30% of the expected livestock turned up at his sale last Monday (Apr 22). He said he sympathised with protesters but also reported intimidation of agents who chose to attend.
Kevin Leahy said business was disastrous at Kilmallock in Co Limerick. Only 350 cattle were sold on Monday compared with more than 1000 in a regular week. Usually 100 buyers would be at ringside. This week there were none.
Irish Farmers Association president John Dillion has called on Irish farm minister Joe Walsh to show flexibility and allow two movements in 30 days. But this policy is opposed by the other main farming union, the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association, which prefers the status quo.
Mr Walsh has said he has no intention of changing the rules. *