Factories have done much to annoy farmers over the years but remain an integral part of the industry, so when they present a plan for handling beef from Irish farms in the years ahead, it is to be welcomed.

It is particularly encouraging that they anticipate being able to accommodate extra beef from dairy herd expansion and it is clear more markets are being found for niche products such as Angus and Hereford.

We continue to have misgivings about aspects of the processing industry, in particular the level of carcase trim supervision and the lack of corporate transparency of our major groups. Despite having highlighted the availability of technology to monitor activities on the slaughter floor, there is an unwillingness to address farmer concerns at industry and Government level.

Nevertheless, a successful processing industry is essential for farmers to receive the best price, and there is no doubt Irish factories pay a better price relative to EU average than a decade ago. We would have preferred the report to have addressed these issues and how they might address farmgate price volatility.