‘Yet another blow to NI poultry producers’ - Moy Park ceases production in Ballymena

“In line with this it is proposed the North Antrim Hatchery will temporarily cease hatching until November 2019.

“We will continue to cut, further process and pack at Ballymena, including retail production of our BBQ products.

“We are currently working with our colleagues and their representatives doing our utmost to minimise the impact of this proposal on our excellent workforce, including offering temporary transfers to other shifts and roles.

“We will also be working closely with our farming partners throughout the process to manage this temporary reduction in poultry requirement.”

A blow

UFU deputy president, David Brown said: “Moy Park’s announcement is yet another blow to Northern Ireland poultry producers.

“Many are already facing massive cash flow pressures within their businesses following the recent amendment to RHI tariffs and this news is likely to mean a further income hit.

“Moy Park is Northern Ireland’s largest employer and made profits of over £72 million in 2017.

“While they have said the decision is temporary, producers are very disappointed that the company cannot stand by them during this period of weaker demand.

“In recent years, retailers have been reluctant to pass on inflationary rises and the cost of the living wage to consumers and there is continuous pressure for the supply chain to reduce its costs.

“Yet again we have seen this squeeze come onto the primary producer and there is a very real risk that some farmers will have to close their business.”