Latest news with #NitratesDerogation
Agriland
16-05-2025
- Health
- Agriland
ICOS: Trends in dairy herd replacements a ‘serious wake-up call'
The Irish Co-operative Organisation Society (ICOS) has described the data on dairy herd replacements as a serious 'wake-up call'. The Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF) data was presented to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) Calf Welfare Shareholder meeting held this week. The number of dairy female calf registrations is down by 12.5% in 2025, when compared to 2024 figures. In addition, the number of first calved heifers has declined by by 9.5% year-on-year. This combination of a sharp decline in both dairy female calves and first-calved heifers suggests that the market for dairy heifers is likely to be very strong over the next few years. Dairy herd replacements In a press release, the ICOS said: 'In the very near future, the number of dairy replacements will not be enough to sustain the dairy herd at present levels.' With the breeding season in full flow, ICOS is encouraging all farmers to 'seek appropriate advice and to consider using the optimal level of dairy artificial insemination (AI) this year to ensure they are breeding sufficient replacements for their herds'. The society is also encouraging farmers to be mindful of the rising incidence levels of bovine tuberculosis (TB) by selecting for TB resistance as part of their breeding policy. ICOS believes the data presented by the ICBF needs to act as a 'serious wake-up call' to the government. 'There is an urgent need to bring certainty to the sector by retaining the Nitrates Derogation and to bring forward immediate policies to address the challenge of generational renewal in the sector,' the society said. ICOS also believe that these stark figures are an added warning to the drop in cow numbers in the coming years, so all steps need to be taken to reduce incidence rates of bovine TB. ICOS ICOS represents co-operatives across Ireland, including dairy processing co-operatives and livestock marts. These organisations collectively generate approximately €16 billion in turnover, with 175,000 members and employment for 12,000 individuals in Ireland, plus an additional 24,000 overseas. In total, Ireland has around 1,000 co-ops, with the largest 100 employing roughly 40,000 people.
Irish Independent
30-04-2025
- Business
- Irish Independent
Aindrias Moynihan appointed to chair Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture and Food
The Fianna Fáil TD for Cork North West was recently appointed to lead the Oireachtas Committee on Agriculture and Food by An Taoiseach Micheál Martin. Deputy Moynihan said that Ireland's agri-food sector is facing one of the most critical periods in its history. Mr Moynihan stated that his focus will be firmly on protecting farmers and ensuring the sector is supported through change. 'This is a vital time for the Irish agriculture and food sectors. These industries are the backbone of our economy and our rural communities. We are entering a period of significant challenge and unpredictability, both economically and geo-politically. It is essential that our farmers and food producers are protected and supported at every level.' An immediate priority for Deputy Moynihan in his new role will be protecting Irish agri-exports from the potential impact of international developments, including any tariffs imposed by the United States. 'We must ensure that affected businesses have every opportunity to find new and alternative markets. While these global shifts present challenges, they also create opportunities. I believe we must act decisively to expand the presence of Irish produce in emerging international markets and to support our food sector in growing its global footprint.' Deputy Moynihan also emphasised the need to support farmers through the green transition. 'We must bring people with us during this time of change. That means working with farmers, not against them, to invest in sustainable technologies and new farming practices that improve environmental outcomes without undermining livelihoods.' The Cork TD continued: 'I am fully committed to making the case at EU level for the retention of Ireland's Nitrates Derogation, recognising our unique grass-based production model. At the same time, we will work constructively with farmers, industry, state agencies and local authorities to develop evidence-based solutions that help improve water quality.' Deputy Moynihan said he will also push for a full review and update of the National TB 2030 Eradication Strategy. 'We cannot afford to lose focus on the continued threat of bovine tuberculosis (TB). I will push for a full review and update of the National TB 2030 Eradication Strategy, in close collaboration with farmers and the wider agricultural sector. 'We must also ensure that the Wildlife Control Programme is properly staffed and that our regional veterinary offices are adequately resourced to carry out this vital work on the ground,' he added. 'Farmers are the foundation of rural Ireland,' said Deputy Moynihan. 'Ireland's agriculture and food sectors are experiencing unprecedented change in how they operate and do business. I am determined to ensure that they receive the support they need and deserve. Farmers are the foundation of rural Ireland. I will work tirelessly to ensure their voices are heard and their concerns acted upon.'
