14 January 2008

2 minute read

Europe

Portrush beef farmer William Taylor has called on local producers to push for better cattle prices as market conditions continue to improve.

Mr Taylor, Chairman of the Ulster Farmers’ Union Beef and Lamb Policy Committee, said producers had to show their ability to be strong sellers. “We are urging farmers to market their cattle strongly. The market is experiencing tight supplies of cattle and strong demand for beef. The Red Meat Taskforce Report has shown that the industry needs a huge increase in farm gate prices. We now have an opportunity in the market place to push prices up for the farmer”.

Mr Taylor added; “The past couple of months have seen a much needed up-turn in beef prices but much more is needed; the cost of producing beef this Winter has risen significantly with the increase in both feed and fuel costs. Although the recent rise in beef prices is welcomed, a much greater price rise is still needed to properly reflect the true cost of producing beef today. Market conditions are favouring producers and they should be seeking the best possible price”.

The UFU also noted that the price differential between Northern Ireland and England for cattle had practically disappeared. William Taylor said; “We have repeatedly called on processors and retailers to justify why cattle prices have been significantly lower in Northern Ireland than in England, even though the beef was destined for the same market. Now we find that when supplies are tight the differential disappears, providing even more evidence that there never was a justification for local producers being paid lower prices. Our producers deserve to be treated equitably with producers in GB and that will continue to be our message to retailers and processors”.

TheCattleSite News Desk