DEAR SIR:

In reference to the letter printed last week regarding the 2014 “reference year” for BDGP, it is suggested that ICBF is “dishonest” in presenting facts. Since the BDGP was established, 2014 has been the reference year selected by the Department of Agriculture and hence the year that ICBF has used in the calculation of trends for the scheme. On the whole, the letter misses the key point that ICBF exists to work for all farmers – pedigree and non-pedigree.

We will continue to work with all farmers, pedigree and commercial, to play our role in ensuring the survival and sustainability of the Irish beef and dairy sectors.

Putting the facts in the public domain is a critical part of that work.

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Letter: 2014 should not be used as reference year for BDGP

Beef management notes: grazing conditions, bull finishing and BDGP changes