Irish beef output decline 4% in 2009

The latest figures from the Irish Central Statistics Office (CSO) show that overall beef production fell by more than 4% to 514,300 tonnes in 2009, mainly due to lower cattle supplies.

According to Peter Duggan of Bord Bia, the drop was evident in every month except March, November and December. ''The relatively strong supplies of cattle and higher carcase weights recorded in November and December suggest that producers held onto stock longer and availed of lower feed prices,'' he said.

Cattle supplies at export meat plants in 2009 were more than 4% lower than previous year levels, at 1.525 million heads. With little change in carcase weights, production decreased more than 4% to 497,000 tonnes. Steer and heifer supplies showed the largest decline, at almost 6%.

Steer beef production at export meat plants was 10% lower for 2009, at 223,700 tonnes. A small carry-over of stock from 2008, strong live exports in 2007, increased exports of finished cattle to Northern Ireland and slower disposal patterns all meant reduced numbers in 2009. Since the beginning of 2010, steer supplies to date are 6% ahead of 2009 levels.

Heifer beef production at export meat plants was 2% lower for 2009 at 117,100 tonnes. Most of the decline in output was attributed to lower supplies, as carcass weights remained relatively unchanged. Cow beef production was stable at 99,500 tonnes.

Duggan said that young bull beef production at export meat plants was 10% higher for 2009, as more producers moved to finishing young bulls.