Meat Industry Ireland (MII) has said the Teagasc Signpost Farms programme has the potential to safeguard the green image of Irish agriculture on the global stage.

The comments follow the launch of the programme on Tuesday 18 May 2021.

“While Ireland is already a world leader in sustainable beef and lamb production, the sector acknowledges that it must continue to improve its sustainability credentials,” MII senior director Cormac Healy said.

MII support

Healy went on to praise MII members’ commitment to financially support the Signpost Programme.

“MII members are pleased to support this important initiative, both financially and through close collaboration with Teagasc and the Signpost farmers.

“Our members’ funding of the Signpost Farms Programme further demonstrates the meat processing sector’s commitment to ensuring that agriculture is part of the solution to the challenge of climate change.”

Mitigation measures

MII also welcomed the mitigation measures chosen by Teagasc to be included in the drystock and dairy programme.

“The Signpost Farms Programme will demonstrate that the widespread adoption of measures such as improved animal breeding, animal health and reduced age of slaughter can help the sector reduce emissions and further underpin sustainability.”

The demonstration programme is engaging with over 40 industry organisations along with MII to develop the practices which will allow Irish farmers to reach ambitious sector environmental targets within the prescribed timeframes.