Mairi Gougeon joined Chair of Quality Meat Scotland (QMS), Kate Rowell and Chief Executive, Sarah Millar alongside Executive Director of the Institute of Auctioneers and Appraisers in Scotland (IAAS), Neil Wilson to provide the Cabinet Secretary with an overview of The Beef Sector Strategy 2030, what it sets out to achieve, and how it will be implemented. Mr Wilson will be overseeing the latter as the strategy moves into its next phase, in his role as chair of the Beef Sector Strategy Leadership Group.
The Beef Sector Strategy, launched earlier this year, was developed by a steering group of stakeholders from across the red meat supply chain and sets out key objectives for the Scottish beef sector to achieve by 2030.
Emphasising that growth must be responsible on social, economic and environmental fronts, the primary areas of focus are environmental sustainability, profitability within the supply chain, people and skills, as well as and animal health and welfare.
Commenting on its significance, Ms Gougeon said:
“The red meat industry is central to our economy and rural communities here in Scotland, and this strategy lays out the necessary steps required in safeguarding its future.
“The ambitious commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 75% by 2030 is particularly welcome and this government will support the industry in these efforts as we work together to build the sustainability of Scottish food production.”
Chair of QMS, Kate Rowell, embraced the opportunity to provide a comprehensive overview of the strategy to Ms Gougeon, as well as answer any outstanding questions:
“The strategy was developed with vital input from the Scottish Government, and we look forward to working with them as we move forward with its implementation.
“As an industry, we are facing countless challenges, but it is reassuring that key industry players from across the supply chain are committed to working together to ensure we can overcome them and secure long-term success.”
To read the 2030 Beef Sector Strategy in full, visit: https://www.qmscotland.co.uk/sites/default/files/beef_sector_strategy_2030.pdf