I propose to take Questions Nos. 1183, 1184, 1185, 1187, 1192, 1221, 1222, 1227 and 1241 together.
My Department does not conduct bovine genetic evaluations.
The Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) is the body approved in Ireland in accordance with relevant EU legislation to conduct testing, genetic evaluation and publication of breeding values for dairy and beef cattle.
Whilst I acknowledge the concerns raised in relation to the recent updates to the beef Euro-Star indexes, I understand from ICBF that this was the first major update since 2015, based predominantly on changing economic drivers such as feed costs and beef prices. A modest adjustment also took place based on earlier slaughter of animals, tuberculosis resistance, carcass specifications and lower methane output.
I understand that prior to the updates, Continentals (Charolais, Limousin and Belgian Blue) were the most desirable Terminal cattle breeds and they continue to be the most desirable after the changes. With regard to the Replacement Index, the top three most desirable replacement breeds (Aberdeen Angus, Limousin and Simmental) remain as the top three after the changes. I am confident that pedigree breeders will continue to play a vital role in livestock breeding through genetic improvement.
ICBF have communicated extensively on changes to the beef indexes, including with breed societies, since the changes were announced. ICBF has recently committed to convening an industry stakeholder forum to address issues and concerns raised by suckler farmers and pedigree breeders and I welcome this engagement.
The Suckler Carbon Efficiency Programme (SCEP) aims to provide support to suckler farmers to improve the profitability and environmental sustainability of the national beef herd. I understand from ICBF that 84% of 4-5 Star animals prior to the changes will retain their 4-5 Star status after the changes.
Breeding animals in SCEP herds whose Index falls below 4 or 5 star rating will not be impacted by the changes. It is only when this animal moves out of this herd that its lower star rating will become applicable and it will no longer meet the 4 and 5 Star eligibility criteria. I understand that any other issues will be addressed in the coming months in the stakeholder forum and communications will be issued to SCEP participants by ICBF. Indeed, ICBF has already written to all SCEP participants and will be doing further direct communication to ensure farmers have a full understanding of what the changes are and how the changes will benefit the national suckler herd. I will continue to monitor any impact on SCEP farmers closely.
I am confident that the amended indexes will contribute to the overall profitability and sustainability of beef production at farm level.