Latest news with #ConorMulvihill
Agriland
20-05-2025
- Business
- Agriland
DII urges ‘rapid implementation' of EU/UK deal
Dairy Industry Ireland (DII) has welcomed the agreement on the alignment of sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) rules between the European Union and the UK. The first major post-Brexit deal between the EU and the UK was unveiled yesterday (Monday, May 19) in London. The deal is set to make food and drink imports and exports 'easier' due to a new agreement on plant and animal products. The post-Brexit deal has been described as a 'new chapter' for the UK/EU relationship and will kick start talks on a range of wider issues including security, defence and fishing access. DII Conor Mulvihill, director of Dairy Industry Ireland (DII) has called for rapid implementation of the new agreement. 'This is a significant step forward in bolstering the dairy trade both between Ireland and the UK and the island of Ireland itself, ensuring the continued prosperity of our key dairy and specialised nutrition industry. 'By removing the Brexit imposed non-tariff barriers and streamlining import requirements, the alignment will facilitate smoother and more efficient trade flows. 'This is particularly crucial for high-volume, short-distance trade with the UK, which has faced considerable disruptions since Brexit,' he said. 'The potential reduction of border checks and veterinary health certificates will reduce costs and delays, allowing our businesses to focus on delivering high-quality dairy and nutrition products without the burden of unnecessary red tape. 'The removal of trade barriers will support the reintegration of supply chains, fostering a more stable and predictable market environment. 'This will help protect the All-Ireland dairy economy, ensuring that farmers can continue to thrive and contribute to the sustainability of our rural communities,' Mulvihill added. Dairy Despite post Brexit diversification, the British market still buys almost €2 billion of Irish dairy and specialised nutrition. The market particularly strong in categories like cheddar and butter. 'In today's uncertain geopolitical landscape, maintaining strong and reliable trade partnerships with our closest neighbour is more important than ever. 'The SPS alignment agreement demonstrates a renewed commitment to cooperation and mutual benefit, reinforcing the importance of food security and economic stability for both the EU and UK. 'Dairy Industry Ireland urges both parties to swiftly implement the agreement and initiate formal discussions to ensure its success,' Mulvihill said.
Agriland
23-04-2025
- Business
- Agriland
Milk volumes ‘may lead to some changes' in collection schedules
Dairy Industry Ireland (DII) has said that the Irish dairy sector is approaching 'early and high' peak milk volumes for the 2025 peak milk supply season, which 'may lead to some changes in milk collection schedules'. Conor Mulvihill, the director of DII – which is the Ibec body representing dairy processors – said: 'Thanks to strong prices and fantastic spring weather conditions, we anticipate peak month volumes in 2025 may approach the records set in May 2022.' Mulvihill said May 2022 was 'an extraordinary month' in which the industry processed almost 1.2 billion litres. He explained that peak supply is expected to occur in late April or early May, depending on weather patterns and grass growth. 'As we navigate this busy period, we kindly ask our milk suppliers and the public to be patient with hauliers and businesses as they manage the significant logistical challenges that come with peak milk supply,' Mulvihill said. He added: 'We extend our sincere gratitude to hauliers and supply chain personnel for their tremendous contributions during this exceptionally busy time. Their dedication and hard work are essential to ensuring that all milk is processed efficiently and safely.' The DII director highlighted that farmers and others should continue to prioritise safety when milking, and during other activities. 'Safety remains our top priority. We remind farmers and everyone involved in milk transport to keep safety at the forefront of their operations,' Mulvihill said. 'During peak season, surplus capacity is limited, and processors work collaboratively to resolve any issues by temporarily diverting milk to alternative locations,' he added. However, this collaborative work, the DII director said, may lead to changes in schedules. 'This collaboration may lead to some changes in milk collection schedules. The high volume of milk to be collected also means longer durations on each farm. 'Additionally, with the country effectively at full employment for truck drivers, milk transport companies face ongoing challenges in securing a sufficient pool of skilled drivers,' he added. 'Dairy Industry Ireland members and their staff are committed to working together with all stakeholders to ensure that peak milk supply is managed efficiently, safely, and in a way that adds value for everyone involved,' Mulvihill said.
