Sir, – Despite the recent turmoil and unrest within the Limousin Cattle Society, our breed continues to go from strength to strength, with Limousin cross cattle regularly producing the top prices at suckled calf, store and prime sales.

Furthermore, it is Limousin and Limousin cross cattle that continue to top the sales without added premiums or bonuses as those who rely on the breed and their commercial progeny, know it comes with the premium and quality built in.

However, it is well-known that the society has had a few issues to face up to in recent times, but, under the stewardship of chairman, Michael Cursiter, we would like to re-assure our members that council has developed an exciting new strategy to take the breed and its breeders forward.

The society will be taking a pro-active approach to create a level playing field for everyone, with increased numbers of herd inspections in all areas. These will be at random, with individuals appearing without notice.

We, in council, are also actively looking at ways to improve the service the society offers, therefore two new members of office staff have been employed to provide a friendly, helpful assistance on any matters of concern.

Council is also aware of the increased costs that breeders have faced recently and we are actively looking at ways of stabilising these, and where possible reducing them to ensure a fitter organisation that will survive the present financial climate.

As a society that has always valued the support of commercial producers who consistently buy Limousin bulls, we are also looking to increase sponsorship where possible, at a number of suckled calf sales, sponsored by the Limousin Cattle Society.

We are also indebted to local butchers who week in week out, look to purchase Limousin cross cattle for their shops, and we will be showing our appreciation to those businesses by featuring those individuals on our Facebook page.

Ever mindful of the responsibility we in council have to the membership, we are actively seeking new ways to develop and promote the breed in a manner that’s beneficial to the membership. If, however, any member wishes to speak to council direct, then please pick up the telephone, or ‘phone our chairman, Michael Cursiter.

David Hamill

Council member,

Northern Ireland.