Corrigan calls for abolition of Bord Bia

Updated: 19:58, Friday, 8 May 2009

One of the country's leading chefs has suggested that Bord Bia should be abolished.

1 of 1 Richard Corrigan Wants Bord Bia abolished
Richard Corrigan
Wants Bord Bia abolished

Richard Corrigan has criticised the Bord's quality assurance scheme because he says it does not ensure products are Irish.

Bord Bia has been promoting Irish food at home and abroad since its foundation 15 years ago.

It has almost 100 staff and nine international offices.

Mr Corrigan said it should be abolished or at least there should be a radical rethink about how it promotes Irish food in Ireland.

He said the Bord Bia Quality Assurance Scheme is deeply flawed, because it can apply to produce from any EU country.

However, Bord Bia said that after two decades of experience, no produce outside the island of Ireland has ever carried or been promoted with the Bord Bia quality assurance mark.

It said that at a critical time for the food industry Mr Corrigan's comments are very damaging to the promotion of Irish produce.

The award-winning chef also claimed that the quality scheme does not ensure that the products are Irish or GMO free, or that the interests of Irish farmers and consumers are a priority.

Why this should change at this time is a complete bafflement and a red herring.

The award-winning chef said the promotion of food at home and abroad should be separated.

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