There is an income crisis on livestock farms in Ireland as the collapse in beef prices is being blamed on Brexit, Irish Farmers' Association president Joe Healy told the Irish farm minister.
Speaking at a meeting of the Beef Forum chaired by Agriculture Minister Michael Creed in Dublin, Mr Healy said growing output alone without improving incomes on livestock farms is an 'unsustainable strategy.'
Mr Healy called on the government to increase market access to the UK by removing barriers on live trade and made it clear to the meat factories beef prices must rise.
The IFA President called on Minister Creed and the Government to mount a strong response at national and EU level to the challenge from Brexit. He said the collapse in beef prices blamed on Brexit is a market disturbance under CAP, similar to the Russian ban, and justifies direct action by the EU Commission.
"With the forecast for an additional 100,000 head of cattle next year, a strong live export trade is vital for calves, weanlings, stores and finished cattle. Live exports are essential for competition and to support market balance and viable prices, as well as additional market outlets," said Mr Healy.
'Crucial'
In September, the Ulster Farmers' Union said Cross border trade for cattle and sheep must be protected.
deputy President Victor Chestnutt, said: ""There are many established links between the livestock sector in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland for both breeding and finished stock.
"This historic trade, in place for generations, is crucial if we are to sustain a vibrant and economically viable livestock sector north and south of the border," said the UFU deputy president.
