Poots Raises Imported Beef Issue With Secretary Of State

Minister Raises Concerns On Beef Imports

Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots MLA has raised concerns with the main supermarkets after recent reports that a significant shipment of beef was imported into the UK from Poland during the start of COVID-19 pandemic.

Quality beef cattle at a Northern Ireland farm enjoying a feed of kale.

During a call to the Secretary of State, George Eustice, Ministers from the other devolved administrations and the main supermarkets, Minister Poots said: “It is deeply regrettable that at this time of great pressure on our farmers, we learned last week that a sizeable quantity of beef has been imported into the UK from Poland.

“Our local farming industry is working hard to ensure we keep food on our tables in the most challenging of circumstances and we must do all we can to support them and to ensure that we have a profitable and sustainable beef sector in the future.

“We’ve been saying loudly that we are all in this battle together and we must fight COVID-19 together – now is the time for our actions to reflect our words.

“I am pleased to say that the retailers involved have assured me that they will make every effort to support our local food supply chain, our local farmers and families and encourage people to buy local.”