The Agri-Food Regulator’s (An Rialálaí Agraibhia) first case for a breach of the Unfair Trading Practices (UTP) Regulations was finalised last Friday (December 13) at Ennis District Court, Co. Clare.
A fine of €1,000 was imposed by Judge Alec Gabbett on Asba Meats Ltd., Beechpark Logistics Centre, Smithstown Industrial Estate, Shannon, Co. Clare. The Regulator was also awarded costs of €10,163.76.
The fine and the awarding of costs followed a conviction by Judge Gabbett on November 19, 2024 in the case taken by the Agri-Food Regulator against the meat processor following the non-payment for cattle delivered to the slaughter plant by a west of Ireland farmer.
CEO of An Rialálaí Agraibhia, Niamh Lenehan, said: “I welcome the finalisation of this case, especially as it came on the first anniversary of the formal establishment of An Rialálaí Agraibhia.
“The outcome of this case sends out a very strong message to buyers in the agri-food supply chain and will serve to increase awareness of the Regulator’s role to enforce breaches of unfair trading law.”
Lenehan reiterated that anyone who feels they may be experiencing or have been subjected to an Unfair Trading Practice (UTP) should contact the Regulator immediately.
Information on how to make a complaint or to make a confidential tip-off is available on the Regulator’s website.
“As evidenced in this case, the Agri-Food Regulator is here to help primary producers and small agri-food businesses in their dealings with larger buyers,” Lenehan added.
“I encourage all suppliers to familiarise themselves with the protections available to them under the Unfair Trading Regulations and to contact the Regulator with any questions they may have.”
Earlier this month, a survey carried out on behalf of the Agri-Food Regulator) reported high recognition of the regulator but hesitation remains to report UTPs.
The survey of agri-food suppliers revealed high recognition of the Agri-Food Regulator with 78% of respondents indicating that they have heard of the statutory body.
According to the survey of primary producers across the sector, 54% of those familiar with the body are aware of its role in protecting producers from UTPs.
However, just three in 10 express confidence that the regulator can protect them against such practices.