DUBLIN: Irish live cattle exports to Britain have dropped by 50% this year compared to the same period in 2014, according to the Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney. According to Coveney, this reduction in live exports has occurred due to Irish beef farmers receiving better beef prices domestically.
“This is a function of better prices being received domestically for beef producers and an almost 10% increase in the live trade to Northern Ireland, up by over 4,000 head in the year to date.” However, he added that this reduction in exports comes on the back of increased live cattle exports from Ireland during 2014.
“Total live exports for 2014 were 237,000 head, of which over 72,000 went to the UK – a 10% increase over 2013. “Specifically, over 54,000 head were exported to Northern Ireland, which is comparable with the 2013 figure. So far in 2015, approximately 8,500 head of cattle have been exported to Britain, 50% down on 2014.”
Minister Coveney also said that this trade has shown some signs of recovery assisted by the relative strength of the sterling in recent times. According to the Minister, this trade is important for the Irish beef industry as it creates an alternative market for Irish cattle.
