Strident sectional demands and pre election posturing from the farming sector would only further damage consumer confidence in beef, said the Tipperary North candidate.
Ms Kathleen O'Meara said: "It would be possible for farmers and the rest of the community to work together to revitalise quality control in Irish agriculture, to stamp out practices like the use of illegal growth promoters and to prepare for the advent of increased free trade."
But consumer confidence would not be restored overnight. This could only be done on the basis of partnership.
"Whether we like it or not, the interests of the consumer and the farmer are tied closely together and the needs of both groups must be respected."