An agreement has been reached on a deal between farmers and meat factories at beef roundtable talks overnight.

The Agriculture Minister says a list of key actions were agreed - aimed at addressing the concerns of beef farmers, including issues concerning weight specifications.

There are to be no price penalties based on weight until the end of next year, there will be no dual base pricing for breed age or weight and beef processors will provide a price incentive for animals from Quality Assured farms from the first of January next.

In a statement, the ICSA said it was pleased to see movement on its key demands, while the IFA said the beef protest sent a clear message to meat factory bosses that farmers must be treated fairly and with respect.

Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney welcomed the agreement, saying it represents the best possible outcome from the negotiations.

The Beef Forum will now work to make sure the agreement is implemented.