Today’s meeting of the Beef Market Taskforce takes place against the backdrop of an improving international beef market making for a better environment for debate on the issues of the industry.

One of the great ironies of Irish competition law is that the beef price itself, the greatest problem farmers face cannot be discussed. However, what the parties present at the first taskforce meeting can do is usefully assess the performance of international markets, noting the changes that have taken place since the group was established in September. Bord Bia’s presence and contribution will be invaluable given its global network of offices that are in a position to provide on the ground updates. They have already delivered the index tools which are a start on bringing greater transparency on what happens beyond the farm gate.

No doubt there will be time spent on specifications and issues such as the grid.

Payment structure is due a review given that it has been in place for over a decade, but any changes in themselves won’t put money in farmers’ pockets. This can only be achieved by either the market improving and/or Government support. Debating payment structure is about allocating the same amount of money in a different way.

The bottom line is that farmers need more money for their cattle. Hopefully now that performance in all of our export markets is positive, it will just be a case of when it finds its way to Irish farmers.