“He is remarkably well briefed on his portfolio and it was easy to identify why he was chosen for that particular ministerial position. He is also one of the most learned people that I have listened on matters pertaining to farming, not only within the EU but where the industry is well established in other world countries.
“I was pleased that he aware that it was the SDLP that led the way on the issue of all island animal health and he gave me an assurance that he will follow through on this all important aspect of the agricultural industry.
- Outgoing South Down MLA PJ Bradley, Minister Simon Coveney TD, SDLP Warrenpoint Branch Chairman Declan McAteer and PJ Bradley’s Assembly Secretary Kathleen Keenan pictured during a meeting with the new agriculture minister in Dublin on Wednesday.
“It is not possible at this stage to know just who my successor as SDLP spokesperson on agriculture and rural development will be, but I am more than satisfied that the new minister in the South will pursue every angle that is in the interest and wellbeing of farming and farmers wherever in Ireland they are located or carry out their business.
“We discussed the pending Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reform and again we were as one in our belief that common policies in relation to the sustainability of the industry north and south should be developed as far as permissible within the CAP guidelines.
“We both agreed that there are tremendous marketing opportunities up ahead for Irish produce, but we equally know that this will not happen automatically, it will have to be worked at but when done properly the returns to Irish farmers will be well worth the effort.
“I was more than satisfied with the commonality of our discussions during the hour-long meeting at Agricultural House and I am absolutely certain that Minister Coveney will work closely with the SDLP and the other political parties in the interest of farmers across the island of Ireland.”]]>
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