Talks are continuing among meat factories to find a resolution to the quality assurance payment for heifers and steers. It was agreed at the last beef forum that the new bonus would be in place by 1 January 2015.

Meat Industry Ireland (MII) chairman Ciaran Fitzgerald said: “MII members are working constructively towards the 1 January commitment, but at the same time it is important that any new arrangement does not overly disincentivise those producers who are already supplying in-spec animals which meet the market requirements.”

IFA has called on Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney to ensure agreement is reached.

Patrick Donohoe