Information evenings relating to the Beef Data and Genomic Programme (BDGP) are starting.

Twenty-nine thousand farmers participating in the programme have received their €uro star reports and, in general, most are happy with their herd profile. Naturally there are surprises with some good-performing cows ranking poorly. No one is forcing farmers to get rid of these animals – the target for 4/5 star is only 20% and 50% of the herd.

It may have got off to a rocky start, but the BDGP has the potential to tackle breeding issues. Farmers should make sure they are fully informed of the facts before exiting. Given the initial confusion around the scheme, it should be reopened to farmers for 2016.