Workers laid off in fight between farmers and beef processors

Around 3,000 workers at meat processing plants in Ireland have been temporarily laid off as a result of an ongoing beef dispute.

Farmers, seeking a fair price for their cattle, are picketing processing facilities around the country. Approximately 80% of Ireland's beef processing facilities are now closed.

Meat Industry Ireland has refused to meet with the workers' union SIPTU.

SIPTU members have endured lay-offs and loss of earnings since the commencement of farmer protests. They now face the possibility of losing their jobs due to production ceasing in some plants for an extended period.

SIPTU believes the only way to resolve the dispute is for Meat Industry Ireland to sit around the negotiating table with farmers' representatives and union representatives.