Suckler cow numbers fell in 21 counties between June 2016 and June 2017, according to ICBF figures. The overall number of suckler cows across the country dropped by 10,400 in 2017, to 1,007,809.
Suckler cow numbers fell in 21 counties between June 2016 and June 2017, according to ICBF figures.
The overall number of suckler cows across the country dropped by 10,400 in 2017, to 1,007,809.
While the decline may seem minimal, it reflects a worrying trend for the future of suckler breeding, with beef calf registrations also down in 2018.
The west of Ireland took the biggest hit in cow numbers, with Connacht recording a loss of 3,720 cows over the 12 month period.
Galway has the highest number of suckler cows in Ireland with 103,449, but also reported the biggest drop off at 1,220.
Dairy increase
In comparison, dairy cow numbers have been increasing exponentially, totalling 1,443,409 cows in 2017.
Cork retained its title for having the highest number of dairy cows in Ireland, with 370,564 and recorded the biggest jump in cow numbers of 8,116. In contrast, the biggest jump in suckler cows was just 237, in Co Monaghan.
Independent TD Michael Fitzmaurice has highlighted that the enforced offloading of stock due to harsh spring conditions and a lack of fodder, will have an impact on the future quality of breeding stock.
Fianna Fáil spokesperson for agriculture Charlie McConalogue has written to the Department of Agriculture, indicating that TDs are awaiting a response from the Minister for Agriculture on a motion passed in February that could introduce a suckler cow payment of up to €200/cow.
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