Forum will prepare plans for future of beef industry

A FORUM is being set up to examine the €1.5 billion Irish beef sector and prepare a framework for its future development.

Agriculture Minister Mary Coughlan announced the move last night in light of the “prevailing opportunities and challenges” facing the industry, which involves 100,000 livestock farmers, and workers in the processing and service sectors.

Producers, processors and relevant state agencies, as well as independent experts, will be represented on the forum, which will be chaired by Jim Beecher of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. It is expected to report before next summer.