IFA: profitability is key focus for beef farmers

Enhanced profitability and an increased membership of the beef technology adaptation programme (BTAP) will be the key focus for farmers over the next 10 years, says IFA president Eddie Downey.

Fri, 29 May, 2015 - 01:00

Joe Dermody

The IFA leader said BTAP needs to see the number of participating beef farmers increase from 5,000 to 15,000.

“It is critically important that Teagasc provides strong, independent research and advisory programmes on beef, which are not influenced by external, commercial bodies,” said Mr Downe. “Beef research and advisory services must deliver outcomes that can be easily accessed by farmers and incorporated into their farm enterprises.”

Speaking in relation to the AIB’s Outlook report on the beef sector, he said improving the viability of beef businesses will require strong viable beef prices, solid direct payment support, increased efficiency and productivity across the sector and co-operation within the sector to optimise the supply balance.

“This is the core message of our submission and work on the Government’s new Agri-Strategy 2025,” he said. “Increased profitability at farm level and increased price premium for sustainably-produced Irish food are the IFA’s clear targets.”