LMC backs Sustainable Ruminant Genetics (SRG) plan as catalyst for progress on genetics

The Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC) has warmly welcomed the launch of the Sustainable Ruminant Genetics (SRG) Strategic Plan 2026–2030, describing it as a once in a generation opportunity to drive meaningful genetic progress across Northern Ireland’s beef and sheep sectors.

SRG will play a central role in the delivery of DAERA’s Bovine Genetics Project, with the strategic partnership providing farmers with support to improve genetics through science-based breeding decisions.

The Commission’s Chief Executive Colin Smith attended the launch, speaking afterwards he said, “The launch event marked an important milestone as SRG moves into the next phase of strategy delivery. Through the Bovine Genetics Project, farmers will be able to benefit from fully funded genomic testing, enabling more informed breeding decisions and accelerating improvements in efficiency, productivity and resilience at farm level. Now is the opportune time to make meaningful progress by embracing the proposed use of high-quality data and new technology.”

LMC is a founding member of the SRG strategic partnership with the Commission pleased to have provided financial support to assist the furtherance of this important work. LMC provides ongoing input to the partnership with Commission Chairman Joe Stewart sitting on the SRG Board.

Colin continued, “The work of SRG will deliver significant benefits to the ruminant livestock sector, representing a once in a generation opportunity to advance livestock management and drive meaningful improvements. Intensive livestock sectors have already shown the substantial gains that can be achieved through genetic progress. With SRG’s support, the beef and sheep sectors now have a real opportunity to enhance the efficiency and profitability of the national herd and flock. I strongly encourage farmers and all industry stakeholders to engage with SRG as they lead in delivering this transformative programme for the industry.”