Farming: Celebration as Irish grass-fed beef gets all-Ireland EU status

An event to celebrate Irish grass-fed beef getting special EU recognition is to be held later in Lifford in the Republic of Ireland.

The protected geographical indication (PGI) designation will apply on an all-island basis.

It is an indicator of a premium product which helps sell the product in continental markets.

Cattle included in the status must spend at least 220 days a year on pasture.

They must also derive at least 90% of their feed intake from grass.

Only certain higher-grade beef animals are eligible.

Beef joins three other products to share all-island PGI status - Irish Poítín, Irish cream and Irish whiskey.

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Three other products from Northern Ireland are registered: Comber New Potatoes, Armagh Bramley Apples and Lough Neagh Eels.

The Republic of Ireland has five products with the award: Clare Island Salmon, Timoleague Brown Pudding, Connemara Hill Lamb, Waterford Blaa and Sneem Black Pudding.

Connemara Hill Lamb also has the award

The PGI award is open to products which must be produced, processed or prepared within the specified geographical area and have particular features, qualities or a reputation attributable to that area.

The Northern Ireland minister for agriculture, environment and rural affairs joined the agriculture, food and the marine minister for the Irish government at the event in Lifford.

It was the first time Andrew Muir and Charlie McConalogue have met since Mr Muir took office.

Andrew Muir met with Charlie McConalogue at the event on Friday

Speaking at the event on Friday, Mr Muir said this is "a massive day of celebration" that PGI status has been granted for Irish grass-fed beef.

The minister said the recognition "opens the doors for so many opportunities".

"We're putting this product on an international stage up there with other products that have received similar status like champagne, and also Irish whiskey.

"This is a really, really positive opportunity but also it's also a recognition of the benefits of north-south cooperation."

Minister McConalogue said PGIs are "really well known" particularly across Europe, but also the world .

He said the new status now means they can actually "enhance the brand" of Irish grass-fed beef and "make sure it's at the top of shelves internationally".