Independent investigation of the gap between average beef cattle prices in Ireland and the British mainland is on the way — but it will look only at Irish prices north of the border.

Study of the beef market in Northern Ireland has indicated that some farmers can negotiate top-ups of as much as 20p/kg higher than base quotes.

AS THE Italian financial crisis unfolded, European Commission president Jose Manuel Barroso warned that a collapse of the eurozone would lead to a 1930s style depression.

THE beef and lamb businesses are among the few sectors which can remain positive about the dangers of a possible global economic upheaval, according to Northern Ireland’s Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC).

THE British beef trade came under pressure in September, with beef volume sales declining 5%.

IRISH farmers could do with better marketing advice.

BEEF industry sources in Northern Ireland have expressed disquiet at imports of about 700 slaughter cattle per week from the South.

Bob Geldof is to receive an award for outstanding contribution to music at the up-coming Brit Awards.

Boyband Busted have gone straight into the charts at number one in Britain with new single Who’s David.

Contestants from Pop Idol are continuing to dominate the UK charts, as new duo Sam & Mark go straight in at the top spot.

Dance outfit LMC Vs U2 managed to stay for a second week at number one in the UK charts with their mix Take Me To The Clouds Above, after ending pop idol winner Michelle McManus’ three week hold on the top spot.