Proposals outlined under the Beef Emergency Aid Measure (BEAM) will see reduction in stock numbers according to the INHFA. The scheme stated National President Colm O’Donnell “is seeking a 5% reduction in organic nitrogen over two years which is a clear requirement for a reduction in stock numbers. The fact that this requirement is across the board will mean that many farmers with low stocking rates will also be expected to reduce numbers which is unacceptable to the INHFA.”
Our view stated O’Donnell “is that if stocking rates are to be reduced then this reduction should apply to those with high stocking rates with the obvious starting point being those requiring nitrates derogation or those currently exporting slurry.”
There is he continued “the added complication for commonage farmers currently required to carry a minimum stocking rate as part of their GLAS plan. There is a clear contradiction here that needs to be addressed which is a point we have raised directly with the Minister in addition to the requirement for a top-up payment on the first 10 cows to ensure full uptake and spend of the €35m secured by the INHFA for the suckler sector.”
The INHFA President continued by stating “how our suckler sector is not the problem when it comes to our carbon emissions as most of these farmers operate an extensive farming system with a low carbon footprint. ” He concluded by stating “how the INHFA have developed a 10 point plan for the future of our suckler beef industry and if implemented can deliver a profitable future in a sustainable farming model.”
