Policy
For Immediate Release
CONTACT: Tanya Augustson (202) 347-0228 taugustson@beef.org
Karen Batra (202) 347-0228 kbatra@beef.org
NCBA Statement:
USDA Decision to Appeal U.S. District Court Injunction of BSE Minimal-Risk Rule
by Jim McAdams, Texas Cattle Producer, and
President, National Cattlemen's Beef Association
March 17, 2005
“The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association believes USDA’s decision to appeal the injunction will speed resolution of this issue and hopefully return this debate to a discussion of science and fact, versus politically-motivated litigation.
“NCBA continues to seek solutions that will grow our industry and assure long-term profitability for America’s cattle producers.
“Ensuring a positive future for cattlemen depends upon: 1) maintaining consumer confidence, and 2) increasing market opportunities for producers. America’s cattle industry has worked for years to gain consumer confidence in beef, and research indicates consumer confidence is at an all-time high. Those in our industry who call into question the safety of beef undermine our efforts and jeopardize our future.
"Forcing an activist agenda on the entire beef industry through litigation based upon unfounded science threatens beef demand and delays our opportunities to regain export markets and increase long-term producer profitability.
"NCBA has outlined eleven key issues that must be addressed before our border is opened to Canadian cattle. This litigation has pre-empted our ability to resolve these issues.
“NCBA and the producer-members it represents stand firm in our fight for profitability and growth.”
~ visit our web sites at www.beefusa.org or http://hill.beef.org/ ~
The National Cattlemen's Beef Association (NCBA) is the largest organization representing America's cattle industry. Initiated in 1898, NCBA is the industry leader in education, influencing public policy to improve producer profitability and in preserving the industry's heritage and future. Efforts are made possible through membership contributions. To join, contact NCBA at 1-866-BEEF-USA or membership@beef.org.