National suckler herd under threat from plunging profitability of beef
Suckler Committee chairman Dermot Kelleher said the lack of profitability in beef is driving more and more suckler farmers to consider getting out of the business.
“Even the best and most efficient suckler farmers are struggling to generate profits, and many are considering moving to more profitable sectors like dairying.
“What people may not realise is that it takes a generation to build up a quality suckler herd, and if we lose it, it may take years to restore,” he said.
Mr Kelleher said the only option for farmers on marginal land may be forestry or land abandonment.
“Farmers on better land have options including dairying and tillage, but I’m very concerned for suckler farmers in disadvantaged areas,” he said.
