Harkin says co-ops must work together on mergers to benefit farmers

A North West MEP is calling for Co-ops to work together to protect the future of the sector.

Sligo MEP Marian Harkin says that following Monaghan-based Co-op LacPatrick's need for a new business partner, it is an opportunity for all Co-ops in the border region to re-align.

She has written to the umbrella body ICOS to call for a meeting where possible mergers could be looked at.

A number of Co-ops are believed to be looking at the Lacpatrick proposal with North West Co-op Aurivo one of those understood to be 'assessing its strategic options'.

Marian Harkin says such mergers could be vital for the future of the sector:

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