The analysis shows that full decoupling of all beef payments from production is the best option in terms of aggregate farm incomes. Full decoupling of beef premia would lead to a decline of around 18% in suckler cows and a consequent drop of 7% in the amount of beef produced. However, following an initial price decline, prices would subsequently increase and when combined with reduced input costs would result in an improvement in farm incomes by an aggregate 10%. The analysis showed that if the link between the slaughter premium and production was maintained, it would not be sufficient to halt the decline in suckler cow numbers. While there could be a small improvement in incomes for most beef producers, there would be a greater overall loss to the sector.