Ireland's hill sheep breeding sector will once again come together at the third annual Hill Multi-Breed Ram Sale in Co. Leitrim in October.

The sale will take place in Manorhamilton Mart, Co. Leitrim, on Friday, October 9. Viewing will commence at 4:30p.m, with the sale beginning at 6:00p.m.

Organised by Sheep Ireland, the sale demonstrates the progress being made across Ireland's hill sheep breeds together with the Sheep Improvement Scheme (SIS).

The event will offer more than 100 SIS-approved rams from hill breeding groups across the country, representing a range of hill breeds including Cheviot and Blackface type.

According to Sheep Ireland, the sale also reflects the consolidation among the hill sheep breeding groups, which play a key role in improving the genetic potential of hill flocks.

Breeding

Eligible rams for this sale must come from approved breeding groups, be DNA sire-verified, and hold an appropriate scrapie genotype (1-2-3).

In addition, every ram presented for sale will undergo a comprehensive physical inspection on the day, including assessments of mouth, testicles, feet, and any physical defects.

These measures are designed to provide confidence for purchasers while maintaining high standards across the sale.

The large availability of SIS-approved rams is also particularly relevant for participants in the Sheep Improvement Scheme.

Connecting hill sheep breeders and farmers

One of the strengths of the annual sale is its ability to bring together breeders from across the country and provide a central marketplace for Ireland's hill sheep sector.

For farmers unable to attend in person, the sale will also be broadcast live through LSL Auctions, allowing prospective buyers to view and bid remotely following registration.

The sale highlights the progress being made by the groups and the quality of rams being produced.

There are currently 17 hill sheep breeding groups operating throughout Ireland.

While they work working independently, they sharing a common objective of promoting genetic improvement through sire verification and the selection of superior breeding animals from six distinct hill sheep breeds.

These breeds are: Cheviot; Dingle Scotch Blackface; Lanark Blackface; Mayo-Connemara Blackface; Perth Blackface; and Swaledale.

The sale is open to buyers from across the country and provides a unique opportunity to source SIS-approved hill rams throughout Ireland.