Summary
The purpose of attending the ICAR conference was to gain an insight into international developments in beef cattle genetic evaluation and to assist in maintaining linkages with the network of international scientists, commercialisers and service providers involved in beef cattle breeding. Funding assistance to travel and attend the conference was offered by MLA in return for this report on key findings and recommendations.
The ICAR conference included a total of over 500 participants, of which an estimated 100-150 are involved in beef genetic improvement. Most countries in the world involved in livestock production were represented, with most delegates coming from Ireland, UK, other European countries and North America.