The number of cattle slaughtered in November 2015 remained virtually unchanged compared to November 2014, according to the Central Statistics Office (CSO).
In November 2015, some 146,100 head were slaughtered compared to 146,000 head in November 2014.
Looking at the first 11 months of 2015 compared to January to November 2014, there’s been a 4.8% decrease in the amount of cattle killed.
A further comparison of November 2015 and November 2014 slaughtering figures also shows that sheep slaughterings increased by 9.6% and pig slaughterings also increased by 8.3%.
Looking at the figures for January to November 2015 with the corresponding period of 2014 shows that sheep slaughterings decreased by 0.6% and pig slaughterings increased by 6.3%.
‘Weak euro worth over 50c/kg to meat factories’ – Beef forum hears
Evidence presented by Bord Bia at the recent meeting of the beef forum suggested that the current euro/Sterling exchange rate is worth some 50c/kg to exporting Irish meat factories, according to Henry Burns of the IFA.
He said it is clear from Bord Bia’s presentation to the Minister, farmers and factories at the meeting, that cattle prices should rise to reflect the much stronger returns from our largest export market.
Burns said winter finishers are in a ‘loss-making situation’ and described this as ‘unsustainable’.
“Bord Bia pointed out to the meeting that the average Irish/UK price gap for 2015 has widened to 82c/kg and is currently well over €1.00/kg.
“The meeting was also informed that this compares to an average of 27c/kg over the 10 years from 2004 to 2013.
Bord Bia also pointed out that the exchange rate with sterling of 10% more favourable for Irish exporters this year, which is worth over 50c/kg,” he said.