Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) is the body approved in Ireland in accordance with the relevant EU legislation to conduct testing, genetic evaluation and publication of breeding values for dairy and beef cattle. As part of their remit, I am advised that ICBF have recently updated breeding indices, the first major update since 2015, based predominately on changing economic drivers such as feed costs and final sale values. A modest adjustment also took place based on earlier slaughter of animals, Tuberculosis resistance, carcass specifications and lower methane output. I understand that further deferment of the update would have impacted breeding decisions at farm level and the ability of AI companies to respond to any impact of breeding decisions as a result of the changes. I am advised that ICBF have communicated extensively with the industry to explain the changes to the beef indexes. On request, ICBF has met with the breed societies since the changes to the beef indexes were announced and ongoing communications are anticipated.
I am confident that the amended indexes will contribute to the overall profitability and sustainability of beef production at farm level.
