Tough year for cattle farmers

It’s a nervous time for cattle farmers — not helped by this year’s livestock price trends. The beef industry needs to act to avoid a scenario of Ireland’s quality beef sector missing out on an opportunity to supply what is fast becoming a luxury food market.

UK beef prices have soared to record highs, and more than seven countries have dropped import barriers to Irish livestock products in 2013.

The UK is Ireland’s main export beef export market, taking nearly half of all the beef produced in Ireland.