Food and Drink Exporters Opposed to Climate Change Bill

The Irish Exporters Association (IEA) Food and Drink Export Council stated today (Thursday 13th January 2011) in its review of the proposed changes to the Climate Change Bill that the amendments to the Bill, up for discussion in the Dáil this week, effectively commits Ireland to a 50% increase above its existing carbon reduction target. These targets have already been committed to under the EU emissions reduction plan.This Bill, if passed, would place unrealistic restrictions on the sourcing of raw materials for the agri-food and drink export sector, according to the Food and Drink Export Council.

Bernard Coyle, chairman of IEA Food and Drink Export Council went on to say:
‘‘Food and drink exporters have been through a very tough few years with labour and energy costs still above our competitors, the last thing the industry needs are jobs being lost because of this measure but now thankfully markets are opening up again, exchange rates are stabilising and the prospects for the next few years are improving. The last thing we need now is an added noose around our necks in Ireland that will push up our raw material and operating costs. And let us be under no illusion, this Climate Change Bill will increase our costs relative to our competitors internationally. ’’

He went on to warn:
‘‘The ability of the food and drink sector to export and generate jobs will be undermined by these proposed new targets. The proposed 30% reduction in greenhouse gas targets is 50% higher than in any other EU member state and will place much higher compliance costs on producers in Ireland. ’’

He concluded by saying:
‘‘The challenge is to meet all the emissions standards in a competitive way and not undermine the improving opportunities in export markets that are opening up for Irish producers. There has been no consultation from Government with the main producers and exporters of food and drink products, with regard to the targets proposed in this Bill. The IEA Food and Drink Export Council strongly urge a full consultation process before moving any further with this Bill. ’’

ENDS