Hi-tech beef sector set for price rise

A Teagasc expert has forecast that beef farmers who apply the best production technology and produce for the high-priced consumer markets can look forward to increased incomes after the implementation of the new EU policy next January.

However, Bernard Smyth, chief drystock adviser, warned that an increase in beef prices will be a prerequisite to profitable farm production.

He said an increase in producer prices will best be achieved through expanding partnerships between farmers and meat processors. These partnerships would lead to more market-oriented production and improved marketing efficiency.