The annual Irish Pig Health Society (IPHS) Symposium is moving to a new venue and adopting a new format for its 2024 event.

The symposium, themed ‘Future proofing the health of your business’, will see attendees assemble at The Curragh Racecourse in Co. Kildare on Tuesday, April 16, where industry experts will address evolving matters within the pig farming sector.

IPHS president Peter Duggan said: “We’re taking a fresh approach when it comes to this year’s event.

“This is in response to the feedback we’ve received and taken on board from delegates as well as our valued sponsors.”  

The keynote speaker for this year’s symposium, which will convene at 5:00p.m, is former Ireland and Leinster Rugby player Bernard Jackman, the recently appointed head of High Performance with Horse Sport Ireland. 

The committee of the Irish Pig Health Society, pictured at The Curragh Racecourse, which will host the society’s annual symposium. L-r: Hannah Ryan; Hazel Rooney; Eadaoin Conway; Peter Duggan; Fiona O’Meara; Thomas Gallagher; Carla Gomes; and Amy Quinn.
Image source: Fennell Photography

Duggan added: “The symposium will feature a high-calibre line-up of monogastric experts, along with an interactive producer discussion panel featuring Joe Healy, Jason McGrath and Sarah Hanley from the IFA [Irish Farmers’ Association] Pig Policy Division, that will be chaired by Michael McKeon of Teagasc’s Pig Development Department.

“There’ll also be ample opportunity for delegates to chat informally on April 16, which the Curragh, as a venue, lends most favourably to.”

The event’s industry trade session will get underway at the Curragh Racecourse Exhibition Hall on April 16 from 3:00p.m.

A range of speakers will discuss practical solutions to the ongoing challenges presented by health, welfare and productivity in the pig farming sector.

Following the symposium, the traditional hog roast dinner will be served, providing for further networking opportunities.