ICSA president, Edmond Phelan has said the mandatory recording of the breed of dam on bovine passports will be of “huge benefit” to beef farmers.
“This is something that ICSA has lobbied hard for as information relating to the dam is vital for those wishing to breed beef cattle with superior conformation and growth rates.”
“ICSA wants to see this information up on mart boards as soon as possible. However, we see this as a first step towards more precise information about dams and sires.”
“This is particularly important so that farmers buying calves, weanlings or stores know exactly what they are getting. For instance, it should be possible to know the percentage of Jersey genetics in any animal offered for sale.”
This, Phelan added, would help ensure that farmers, who put most effort into breeding animals with suitable attributes for beef, get the rewards.
“Meanwhile, stock that are bred with no regard for beef traits should be priced accordingly.” the farm leader concluded.
