Spin by Anonymous Govt Sources About Bord Bia Controversy Smacks of Desperation

IFA President Francie Gorman said IFA has been contacted by a number of media outlets over the weekend after they were briefed by anonymous Government sources about various matters to do with the controversy around the Chair of Bord Bia.

In the interests of clarity, it is correct that at the board meeting on Thurs, at which the IFA President was present, the Chair offered to brief the IFA on his use of Brazilian beef.

“I did not take up this offer, on the grounds that it would only inflame matters. The fact is he has confirmed that his company is using Brazilian beef. This is the issue farmers have – not the reasons for it, or where or when, or how much,” he said. 

“The Bord Bia Chair could have called a public farmer meeting at any stage last week to ‘explain’ his position. In fact, I had to write to Bord Bia twice before the board meeting was convened. They can still call a public meeting this week and the Minister and the other board members could attend,” he said.

“The reality is that Bord Bia have had to call off their planned meetings with farmers scheduled for tomorrow and Tuesday because of this issue. The reality is that they have gone into hiding and hoping this will pass,” he said.

“I also want to make it clear that I don’t intend to resign off the Board of Bord Bia. I’m very clear that the position I have adopted is in the best interests of Bord Bia and Irish farmers. I will be staying on the board and continuing to seek the removal of the Chair,” he said.