Emerald Expo, which takes place this year on Saturday April 26, will see a mix of commercial milk producers and pedigree cattle at Cilin Hill in Kilkenny.
According to Irish Holstein Friesian Association (IHFA) Chairman, Richard Whelan, the end of milk quotas represents a tremendous opportunity for Irish dairy farmers to grow their businesses on a sustainable basis. “The good news in this regard is that the myriad of trade organisations represented at this year’s Emerald Expo will ensure that farmers with questions to ask will get the answers they need.”
Ireland, he said, is truly unique as a centre of excellence within Europe’s dairy sector. Emerald Expo has been developed to reflect the demand at all levels within our industry. He also said that Emerald Expo will have a top line of pedigree breeders, who will, be vying for the tremendous prize money and show accolades on offer.
“All the main dairy breeds will be represented,” he commented. “This year’s event will have 20 classes, six championships and a prize fund of €25k, making it one of the biggest occasions of its kind taking place in the Europe this year.”
Alltech will, once again, be the principal sponsor of the Emerald Expo. Speaking at the launch of this year’s event, Kevin Tuck, Managing Director of Alltech Ireland said: “We are, once again, delighted to be main sponsor of Emerald Expo, which is now established as one of the leading events in the Irish dairy calendar. We have been associated with the event since its inception back in 2011. Over this period it has grown significantly in stature, both in terms of the commitment shown by pedigree breeders and the attendance of farming families from every part of this island. Emerald Expo has a unique atmosphere. In reality, it is much more than a show, as it encapsulates everything that is good about dairy farming in Ireland. Emerald Expo 2014 has an important added dimension, given the fact that milk quotas will end in 2015. The organisers have ensured that this year’s event will represent an important hub for those farmers wishing to find out as much as possible about the future options for dairy.”