Minister briefed on role of independent sector

MEMBERS of Banbridge Chamber of Commerce met with Shadow Agriculture Minister Jim Paice yesterday (Monday) to highlight the contribution of the independent sector in supporting local farmers and producers.
By The Newsroom
Published 12th Apr 2010, 14:05 BST
Updated 12th Apr 2010, 16:08 BST

Representatives of the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association (NIIRTA) were also present at the meeting which took place in Banbridge.

Glyn Roberts, NIIRTA chief executive, said, “We are delighted to brief Mr Paice on the huge contribution that the independent retail sector makes in supporting local farmers and producers, with our members sourcing nearly 100 per cent of local meat and poultry.

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“The independent sector is a crucial route to market for local farmers and therefore having strong and vibrant town centres is essential.

“Our representatives pressed Mr Paice on the need for any incoming Conservative Government to speedily establish a UK Grocery Ombudsman to ensure proper competition and a fair deal for farmers and suppliers in their dealings with the UK multiples.”

Joe Quail, Banbridge butcher and NIIRTA member, added, “Butchers make a huge contribution in supporting local farmers and our town centres in Northern Ireland. It was good to showcase the very best of independent retailers in Banbridge to Mr Paice.”

Related topics:RepresentativesBanbridge