Farmers have urged Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney to remain centrally involved in efforts to resolve the crisis in the beef sector.

Speaking before addressing a meeting of livestock farmers in Castlerea, Co Roscommon, last night, Irish Farmers' Association president Eddie Downey said Mr Coveney's involvement was essential to ensure that genuine progress was made between farmers and meat factories.

“The IFA will engage to address the real issues, but it is essential the Minister remains fully engaged to ensure a positive outcome and fair play for farmers.” Cattle prices have fallen by €200-€400 per head since this time last year, depending on the type of animal being sold in what the IFA has described as the worst crisis ever to face beef producers.

Meat Industry Ireland said the price drop was a reflection of the 700,000 tonne drop in EU beef consumption since 2010 compounded by an increase in EU beef output this year.

More than half of Irish beef is sold to the UK but in the past year Irish meat factories have been rigorously enforcing specifications, rejecting bull beef from animals older than 16 months.