Bord Bia Chair Survives Row Over Brazilian Beef Imports
Bord Bia Chairman Withstands Resignation Calls Over Brazilian Beef Imports
The chairman of Bord Bia has withstood calls to resign following controversy surrounding imports of Brazilian beef by his company, Dawn Farms.
According to reporting by The Irish Times, Larry Murrin retained the backing of both the Bord Bia board and the Irish Minister for Agriculture, despite strong criticism from farming organisations. The dispute centres on Dawn Farms’ confirmation that around 1% of its beef supply in 2025 originated from Brazil, at a time when many Irish farmers are actively opposing the EU–Mercosur trade agreement.
Farming groups have argued that the imports represent a conflict of interest, undermining Bord Bia’s role in promoting Irish produce abroad. Government representatives, however, have stated that due process will be followed, and that governance procedures are being respected.
The episode has intensified debate within Ireland’s agri-food sector over credibility, governance and the balance between commercial sourcing decisions and public policy positioning, particularly as Mercosur remains politically sensitive.
Source: The Irish Times | 22 January 2026
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