“Retailers are exploiting the lack of regulation in this area to sell products that do not match the standards met by local producers. Consumers who want to support Irish producers are being hoodwinked into believing they are buying local produce. The Department of Agriculture must look at the model that has been introduced in the UK, and the moves by the European Commission to overhaul labelling laws before the end of the year. The Department must ensure the new regulation is effectively implemented. It must provide clear and unambiguous labelling for consumers that removes all anomalies.” IFA President, John Bryan.

Mr Bryan also said country of origin labelling issue has been continuously raised with promises to end the current abuse of the existing system. Concluding Mr Bryan added that the support from the Consumers Association for the IFA position on misleading labelling is long overdue and the Government must urgently act on the issue.

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