Teagasc was recently awarded the tender to complete the Beef Data and Genomics Programme (BDGP) training course in 2016.
The course will be four hours in duration and will be totally focused on all aspects of the BDGP – interpretation of breeding reports, breeding targets, compliance, etc.
It is understood pilot courses will be run in February with the main courses starting in March.
Farmers will receive €166 on completion of this training course. Teagasc is advising farmers to keep an eye out and get it completed when you see it advertised locally.
This money will be paid by the training provider directly to the Programme applicant upon successful completion of the course.
Applicants must attend a specific training course related to this Programme. The training course is
designed to provide:
- An introduction to the BDGP;
- Information on the individual requirements of the Programme, such as data collection, genotyping,
genomic indexes and the replacement strategy; - Information on controls, inspections and sanctions;
- Training on the understanding and optimal use of breeding indexes, with a focus on maternal traits and the linkage with on-farm carbon efficiency
This training must be completed by October 31, 2016.
A total of 29,865 applicants were accepted into the Beef Data and Genomics Programme, of which 3,200 applicants have now withdrawn.
According to Minister Coveney, approximately 4,300 applicants have not, as yet, returned their genomic samples.
The Department will be making contact with these herdowners in the coming weeks to remind them to submit samples to facilitate payment.
Genomic proofs
The ICBF will also have genomic proofs for farmers in the Beef Data and Genomics Programme (BDGP) in 2016.
This new data will help all suckler farmers to make more informed breeding decisions, and will lead to increased levels of genetic gain in the national beef herd.