Thomas Pringle (Donegal, Independent) | Oireachtas source

With regard to the power of the multiples, more than 90% of beef produce is exported and while I am not sure of the percentage in the dairy sector it is probably pushing this figure. In such a case, forcing the multiples to pay a reasonable price for dairy products will not make any impact on the price the farmer gets for the produce. I do not see much point in pursuing the multiples in Ireland. The price paid by multiples for a litre of milk would probably have to be increased by 1,000% to make an impact on the farmers supplying the milk.

I do not know how to tackle this issue. Perhaps the witnesses could speak more about it.

I was interested to hear the comments of the witnesses on Brexit and how negotiation with the UK will benefit the entire EU and not necessarily Ireland. Given that 69% of our agrifood exports are to the UK and non-EU countries, does the ICMSA believe we should consider our position in the EU if a tariff on exports to the UK is introduced after Brexit takes place?