The Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Association (ICMSA) has said that with more than 8,000 applications received for the calf weighing scheme, there is evidence for greater integration of the dairy and beef sectors.

Chair of the livestock committee Des Morrison said there is a need for a scheme that bridges both sectors and moves the integration process up a gear.

“We know that the amounts are very modest at a maximum of €400 per farmer and the ICMSA is proposing that if there are surplus funds available under the scheme, the level of payment per head should be increased to utilise the full budget available,” Morrison said.

“The real encouragement here is the recognition of a common interest between dairy and beef farmers to produce a better quality beef calf. We have always maintained that both sectors and, indeed, the national economy will benefit from this initiative which should developed and enhanced in future years.”