Existing trade links between the UK and Ireland are 'well established', the meeting noted
Livestock representatives from the UK farming unions and the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) have met in Belfast to discuss Brexit and the trade implications for the livestock sector.
The organisations agreed it is essential that free trade is maintained between the United Kingdom and the European Union post-Brexit.
The groups said this must include securing a soft border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland (ROI).
Speaking after the Belfast meeting, the UK farming unions said in a join statement: “The UK’s decision to leave the European Union has brought into focus many issues for the cattle and sheep sector in the UK and ROI.
“Our countries have strong trade links for both livestock and red meat products and it will be essential we have a free trade agreement in order to secure a healthy future for these vulnerable sectors.”
Livestock representatives from UK farming unions and groups (Photo: @UFUHQ)
'Vital role'
Existing trade links between the UK and ROI are well established and play a vital role in each economy.
NFU Scotland’s Livestock Committee Chairman Charlie Adam said politicians must take this into consideration during Brexit negotiations.
“Nearly 40 per cent of the UK’s beef exports go to ROI while 50 per cent of Irish beef exports are marketed in the UK.
“In terms of sheep, the fact that over 40 per cent of Northern Ireland’s lambs are processed in the Republic of Ireland and 90 per cent of the UK’s lamb exports are destined for the European market show that there is a lot hanging on achieving a progressive free trade arrangement.”
Equivalent standards
The unions agreed that to achieve favourable trading conditions between the UK and EU post-Brexit, there must be equivalent standards for agricultural practices and processing.
“The existing standards that are in place will give us a solid foundation to work from and help ease the negotiating process,” the farming unions said.
“The UK and Irish farming unions are committed to finding practical solutions that allow for the harmonious trade of livestock and red meat products between the UK and the EU to continue post-Brexit.”
NFU Scotland’s Livestock Policy Manager John Armour, who also attended the meeting added: “In securing the future of established trade links, politicians must ensure that the UK does not enter in to free trade agreements with third countries which produce beef and lamb to low standards. The integrity of the current market must be protected.”