26 March 2010

2 minute read

Europe

The Minister was met by the Chief Executive Officer of the Foyle Food Group, Terry Acheson and introduced to plant staff on a tour of the factory.

Speaking afterwards, the Minister said: “Local producers and industry representatives have expressed concerns to me regarding the accuracy of the machine. Having seen the system operate at Foyle Meats, I am assured that the machine has undergone extensive testing by grading experts and this robust testing should ensure that the machine will accurately grade against the required EU beef carcases classification standard. We will continue to closely monitor this. This new technology also offers the long term potential to provide a payment system based on meat yield.”

The Minister added: “Automated classification has been adopted in several other EU countries and has been in use for several years in the south of Ireland. The progress of adoption and installation of the technology in northern meat plants will be subject to the outcome of the certification test and obtaining formal approval from the European Commission before machines can be licensed for use in abattoirs here. My Department will continue to work with all those involved to do all that it can to support the industry’s desire to embrace new technology.”

In conclusion the Minister said: “The food industry makes a vital contribution to our economy and is our most significant exporter. I recognise that this winter has been a particularly difficult one with increased production costs and the reduction in beef prices. Pricing structures and prices paid to producers are commercial matters, however we need to have a sustainable food supply chain in which all links, right back to the producer, are profitable and viable. I would encourage producers and processors to maintain dialogue to increase understanding of each others’ positions and to ensure that everyone gets a fair return.”

TheCattleSite News Desk