An emergency meeting of the Bord Bia board was carried out on Thursday 22 at the request of IFA president Francie Gorman, who is also a board member. Speaking on RTÉ, Heydon said many Irish food companies require 'twin production capacity' to operate in international markets, noting that Ireland exports around 90% of its food and drink. In a statement following the board meeting, Bord Bia chief executive Jim O’Toole said the board had reached its decision after 'a full, open and considered discussion'. While not unanimous, he said the board recognised Murrin’s significant contribution and industry experience, and concluded that supporting him was in the best interests of Bord Bia, Irish farmers and the wider agri-food sector. Bord Bia is preparing a detailed report on the matter for the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine.