Agriculture Minister meets range of stakeholders to discuss Ukraine and P&O

Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots has met with industry representatives, hauliers, banks, supermarkets and retailers about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the suspension of P&O ferry sailings.

The Minister brought together the key stakeholders this week to hear how the crises have affected the local agri-food sector and seek out opportunities for his Department to support them.

Speaking after the meetings, the Minister said: “Those who attended the meetings today were very clear in highlighting the difficulties they are facing. We have a completely integrated supply chain and the knock-on impacts of the Ukraine crisis and suspension of P&O ferry sailings has taken its toll.

“While our agri-food sector is extremely flexible and has so far adapted their supply lines quickly to ensure that fresh food in particular is getting on to our shelves, the situation is not sustainable for any length of time. The Ukraine crisis in particular is likely to continue for a considerable length of time and that presents a range of challenges including rising costs of grain, fertiliser, seasonal labour, fuel and energy costs.

“I wish to support our agri-food sector navigate these issues in any way I can, including pressing upon other Ministerial colleagues and UK Government Ministers to intervene in any way possible. 

“It’s clear that some sectors, such as the pig and fisheries sectors, are feeling the impact more than others and we must do all we can to support those who are most vulnerable to these types of crisis.

“Once again, the importance and resilience of our agri-food sector is front and centre. I would like to extend my thanks to everyone who works in agriculture, processing, distribution, packing and retail for their work in keeping food on our shelves. I also want to extend my thanks to Stena Line for their quick response in putting on extra sailings.”

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