Longford farming news: Factories playing very dangerous game – IFA

IFA Livestock Chair Declan Hanrahan has hit out at the behaviour of meat factories in dropping prices for the most expensive cattle to produce when our key export markets are strong.

EU prices have now surged past ours, something that hasn’t happened since the end of 2024. This reflects the strength of demand for beef in a market that took half of our exports in 2025 and continues to be a key outlet.

“EU beef prices have risen over 65c/kg since last June. Our prices over the same period have dropped almost 30c/kg, representing a turnaround of almost €1/kg.

"In the outlets for 90% of our exports, prices are almost 30c/kg above ours as EU and UK beef prices align. Both these high value markets have reduced production, so they need more imports.

READ NEXT: Acclaimed Longford-based artist launches thought-provoking exhibition ‘Berehynia’

“Winter finishers will not take this unacceptable behaviour lying down.

"Farmers have made huge investments in buying stock and finishing them for factories at the most expensive time of year, only to find themselves faced with weak selling and opportunism from factories," he added.

Declan Hanrahan said factories and Bord Bia are continually telling us of the need for Quality Assurance to access the high-value UK and EU markets.

“We are delivering these standards, but factories are not playing their part in returning the value of these markets to farmers.”

READ NEXT: Gardaí appeal for witnesses and dashcam footage after tragic death of Longford resident