Farmers get advice on beef policy
The policy changes are due to take effect in January 2005.
The conferences will advise farmers on maximising income from beef and will also feature expert information from Bord Bia and leading beef processors on market outlets and on short and medium-term prospects for Irish beef exports.
Bernard Smyth, chief drystock adviser with Teagasc, said beef farmers who apply the best production technology and deliver a product for the high-priced consumer markets can look forward to increased incomes after the implementation of the new EU policy.
Mr Smyth said 50% of Irish beef exports are now going to the British market with a further 30% going to continental EU markets.
“We must increase the proportion of beef being exported to the higher priced continental market if profitability at farm level is to improve. The views of Bord Bia and beef processors on how this can be achieved will be worth hearing,” he said.
The conferences will also look at the important production challenges facing beef producers over the coming winter, with guidelines from Teagasc specialists on profitable feeding strategies.
Each conference will start at 8pm except for the opening one on October 26 at the Court Hotel, Tullamore, which will begin at 8.30pm.
Dates and venues for the others are: October 27, Riverside Hotel, Enniscorthy and Teagasc Resource Centre, Athenry; October 28, Anner Hotel, Thurles; November 1, Ardboyne Hotel, Navan, November 2, Hibernian Hotel, Mallow and November 3, Holiday Inn, Letterkenny.
