Beef genomics scheme the main boon for farmers

A new beef genomics scheme is the main Budget feature for farmers.

It builds on Ireland’s world leading cattle breeding genomics research, and delivers an expected budget boost to suckler cow farmers, seen as playing a vital role in the beef industry.

Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney has allocated €23m to the genomics scheme, and indicated that some 32,000 herdowners can earn €40 per calf for up to 550,000 suckler calves, plus €20 from the existing Beef Data Programme (participants must join both schemes).