Survey Illustrates Loss in Beef and Pig Sectors
UK - The Ulster Farmers’ Union says the results of the December Agriculture Survey, published by DARD, highlight the problems faced by the beef and pig sectors.
26 February 2008
1 minute read
The number of beef cows in Northern Ireland fell by nine per cent in the past year and the number of sows and gilts fell by eight per cent in the previous 12 months.
UFU President Kenneth Sharkey said: “This sample survey is an interesting indicator of trends in the farming industry. Since CAP Reform and the decoupling of CAP support from production, farmers have much more flexibility in their business decisions. It is clear from this survey that during 2007, many suckler cow and pig producers have downsized their herds or ceased production. This has been our warning to processors and retailers for a long time. If producers aren’t paid sustainable prices they will not stay in the industry and consumers will be deprived of high quality local produce”.
Mr Sharkey added: “19 per cent fewer prime cattle were slaughtered in Northern Ireland in January 2008, compared to January 2007. Many pig producers are also seriously considering de-stocking because of unsustainable prices. The retail sector must respond to this and look seriously at how to secure sustainable supplies of local produce which their customers are demanding”.
Further Reading
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- | You can read more on the DARD survey by clicking here. |
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