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UFU calls for stronger lamb prices to reflect the Easter lamb market

The Ulster Farmers’ Union has called for better marketing of lamb and stronger lamb prices as we approach the Easter lamb market. The comments were made following a sheep summit in Brussels.

UFU President Harry Sinclair said; “Lamb prices in Northern Ireland have been hard hit in the last year, however, they have improved in recent weeks with quotes edging upwards of 420p/kg. Easter is fast approaching and we are hopeful that there will be a considerable lift in lamb prices at that time. Sheep producers across Northern Ireland continue to struggle with rising input costs and their profit margins are being squeezed significantly. The 50% drop in farm incomes last year is a stark reminder of the serious situation facing farmers across the province and in the case of sheep farmers, we want to see a farm gate price that is reflective of the Easter lamb market. 

“While in Brussels the UFU delegation met with Beef and Lamb New Zealand to discuss the influence of New Zealand lamb on the EU market. The UFU will continue to have an open dialogue with New Zealand representatives to monitor NZ supply and its effect on the local market. 

"The UFU is also lobbying the EU Commission, through COPA, to allow for the generic promotion of sheep meat. This is an issue across the EU and we are keen to see an increase in the consumption of lamb across all member states. A promotional campaign encouraging consumers to eat more lamb would be a major boost for the lamb industry in Northern Ireland and could help to open up new markets.”