Dairy Technical
The Irish dairy sector has experienced substantial growth since the removal of milk quotas in 2015, with many farmers switching to dairy.
The national dairy herd has experienced a large increase post milk quota with 100 cows herds becoming the norm in many parts of the country.
Francis Quigley, a Teagasc milking machine specialist, outlines what farmers should consider when...
Dairy
Minister McConalogue gave little away when the subject of capping herds was mentioned regarding the "significant expansion" of Irish dairy.
Agri Politics
The climate action roadmap for the agricultural sector, Ag Climatise, is based on "the premise of a stable herd", Minister McConalogue says.
Environment
While there is not necessarily a need to cut herd numbers, increasing numbers is also not the way to go, according to Dr. Frank Mitloehner.
Since the expansion period began in Ireland for dairy, many people are concerned that too much debt is being put on the industry.
"We do not have the luxury of sitting on our hands," according to Glanbia chairman Martin Keane, when speaking about dairy expansion.
As the tsunami of dairy calves grows nearer, is it any wonder that dairy farmers are desperately searching for a solution?
Glanbia Ireland's milk supply growth in 2019 is expected to be 8.5%, amid continued growth, with investments made to facilitate this.
Following a "satisfactory" performance in 2018, which saw revenue of €993 million and earnings of €48.6 million, Dairygold is optimistic.
Beef
Ireland now has an extra 350,000 dairy cows in the country compared to five years ago, with additional calves from these coming on stream.
Brockna Dairies, owned by the Hanbidge family from Co. Wicklow, played host to farmers from all over the country for a recent farm open day.
Buildings
Farming 140ac in Vicarstown, Co. Laois, Eoin Miller is a new entrant dairy farmer. Originally he operated a suckler-to-beef enterprise.
N.Ireland
Lakeland Dairies’ milk suppliers in Northern Ireland are confident for their future in dairying, according to the results of the Northern Irish arm of the survey undertaken by the co-operative.
Located in Kilmoganny, Co. Kilkenny, Bryan and Gail Daniels milk a herd of 300 Friesian cows under a grass-based production system.
Farming just outside, Birr, Co. Offaly, John and Sylvia Powell run a dairy enterprise consisting of 280 crossbred cows.
Since the removal of milk quotas in 2015, there has been increased interest in milk production as a career amongst existing drystock farmers.
Padraig and Ena Collins - along with their three children - are in the midst of growing their dairy business to 400 cows.
The face of the Irish dairy industry has changed; the loosening of milk-quota shackles in 2015 gave many farmers the opportunity to expand and grow their dairy businesses.
Now under the stewardship of Bernard Ging, and his wife Ciara, the farm is home to a thriving dairy business.
Born and bred in Whangarei, New Zealand, Chris Procter knew he was going to do two things in life – play sport at the highest level and own his own farm.
Since the shackles of milk quotas were removed, the number of dairy cows present on Irish farms has grown substantially.
