Beef farmers must be first in line for the €1bn Brexit fund, providing meaningful supports without preconditions, IFA national livestock chair Brendan Golden has said.

The funds come as part of the Brexit adjustment reserve, which is worth a total of €5.4bn up until 2024.

A total of €4.2bn will be released this year and €1.04bn (25%) of that will be received by Ireland.

The IFA highlights that Brexit has impacted directly on beef farmers since the vote was taken in 2016, primarily through the sterling fluctuation, and this must be addressed in the allocation of the fund.

Strong demand

The livestock chair also reports that beef prices have strengthened this week.

Golden said: “Steers are making €3.75 to €3.80/kg, with heifers between €3.80 and €3.85/kg in most factories. There are deals above these levels available for larger lots and Angus cattle.

“Market demand is strong, driven by the high volumes of beef sales in supermarkets. Supplies are predicted to remain tight.

"Cow price has also strengthened this week and is ranging from €3/kg to €3.40/kg, depending on grade.”

Golden reports that young bull prices have also risen in the past week and are ranging in general from €3.60 to €3.80/kg for O/R and U grades.

While uncertainty around some logistical issues and access to the UK market remains, demand is strong and the IFA has called for beef prices to reflect current market conditions.