Teagasc Tullamore host ‘Beef Markets and Veterinary Event’
Teagasc Tullamore are hosting a ‘Beef Markets and Veterinary Event’ in Tullamore Mart on Tuesday October 15 at 6.30pm, in conjunction with GVM, Kepak and Bord Bia.
Beef markets have been positive throughout 2024, as both factory and mart prices remain strong. Farmers purchasing store cattle are hoping that the trend will continue into 202, and, with that in mind, Joe Burke from Bord Bia will discuss current trends and the outlook for the short to medium term.
A Teagasc spokesperson said that a recent report from Bord Bia suggests that beef carcass weights are approximately 10kg lighter compared to the same period last year. That may be a result of later turnout to grass, and difficult grass growing conditions during the summer months.
Factory agents are also reporting that a large number of cattle being presented for slaughter are not finished to their potential, which has a knock-on effect on cattle grade, kill-out percentage and carcass weight – which will lead to poorer returns than expected for farmers.
A number of live cattle, at different phases of finishing will be on display at the event.
Eamon Phelan from Kepak will comment on the level of finish of the cattle on display, selecting cattle suitable for slaughter and highlighting animals that need further feeding.
Aisling Claffey, Teagasc nutritionist, will discuss the merits of the feeding options available to farmers and outline the costs involved in taking the animals from forward stores to finish.
Recently, there has been worry and confusion about the new changes to veterinary medicine legislation. Concerns include future access to antibiotics, cattle dosing and general animal remedies, and to address some of those, Teagasc have invited veterinary surgeon John Donlon to explain what the changes will mean for farmers.
He will also give some veterinary advice on animal health in advance of the winter housing period.
Organisers expect a large turnout for what they say will be an informative and timely event.