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Riparian mowing move ‘only one part of the response’ – ICSA

Permission for earlier mowing of riparian areas has been welcomed by the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers’ Association (ICSA), though it said that more action is needed. ICSA president Sean McNamara acknowledged Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon’s decision to allow earlier mowing of riparian areas, but said that more steps are required, given what is happening on farms. McNamara said: “ICSA called for the move on riparian areas as an immediate practical measure and we welcome the fact that the minister has acted on it. “But this is only one part of the response. “We now need to deal with the bigger problem and prepare for what could happen next spring.” Speaking following the meeting of the National Fodder and Food Security Committee (NFFSC) held in Teagasc, Oak Park, Carlow on Friday (August 21), McNamara said that getting fodder to the farmers who need it,…

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2027 Can-Am Traxter offers ‘best-in-class’ 80hp engine

The determination of farmers has been "embodied" in "a host of advancements" to Can-Am's 2027 range of side-by-side (SSV) and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs), according to the machinery producer. Can-Am, which is one of Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP)'s brands, has said its 2027 line of vehicles will "deliver a riding experience unlike any other machine". In addition to the 2027 updates, the company has announced there will be 105 new accessories to "unlock more capability and confidence in demanding conditions". BRP product analyst Carlos Alvarez-Valls said: "Simply put, the 2027 Can-Am lineup is all about refinement and value. "From the hardworking Traxter XU package to the updated Maverick lineup, the advancements made across our platforms showcase our commitment to delivering greater value for every rider," he said.

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Threshing festival to showcase agricultural heritage

Knock Vintage Men's shed will showcase the country's rich agricultural heritage when its annual threshing festival takes place in Co. Laois next month. The event, which will be hosted in Spink on Saturday, September 12 and Sunday, September 13, is not just a fundraiser for Knock Vintage Men's Shed and Knock National School, according to Brian Brennan who chairs the organising committee. It is also a harvest festival bringing in the corn grown in Knock, 10 minutes walk from the threshing field. The site was ploughed using vintage machines and cut with binders more than 100 years old. Brennan said: "A showman's steam engine will join us from Co. Tyrone which is a fantastic first. She will join engines from Laois, Carlow and Wexford.

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Wicklow farmers sought for sheep worrying survey

Sheep farmers in Co. Wicklow are being sought to take part in a confidential survey on sheep worrying. Both those who have experienced the problem, and those who have not, are encouraged to take part. The survey, ‘Sheep Worrying in Wicklow’, is being carried out by University College Dublin (UCD) and is sponsored by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM). Dr. Locksley Messam, lecturer in veterinary epidemiology at the School of Veterinary Medicine, UCD, told Agriland that the survey has three purposes: Dr. Messam believes sheep worrying is a "serious problem". He explained: “While there is a sheep welfare problem when this occurs, I am concerned because of the impact it has on sheep farmers.

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Farmers urged to avoid turning to ‘Dr Google’ or AI on health concerns

Farmers are being encouraged to think twice before turning to ‘Dr Google’, or increasingly artificial intelligence (AI), when they have a health concern. The advice comes as Fit Farmers prepares to officially launch its newly customised health app for Co. Leitrim. "Putting trusted information in farmers' pockets" is the thinking that has helped shape the Fit Farmers app, which will be unveiled in Co. Leitrim at Mohill Library on Thursday, August 27. Founder of the Fit Farmers initiative, nurse Laura Tully said: "For many of us, reaching for the phone has become almost automatic when something doesn't feel right - a persistent pain, a symptom we don't recognise or something that has been niggling away.

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Organic producer group to host inaugural sheep sale at Maam Cross Mart

The Western Organic Producer Organisation (WOPO) is set to host its inaugural sale of organic sheep tomorrow (Sunday, August 23). The sale will take place at Maam Cross Mart in Connemara, Co. Galway. The producer group is funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) and all sheep entered in the sale will have been supplied by producer group members. The sale is expected to feature over 700 store lambs, both hill and lowland breeds, as well as approximately 500 ewe lambs, 200 ewe hoggets, and 100 breeding ewes. Online bidding will be avaliable to buyers on the MartEye app. Online customers must register with Maam Cross Mart prior to the sale to bid online. Last autumn, the group made a successful application to DAFM for funding.

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Grass growth: Pressure continues to build in the east

Grass growth around the country continues to vary greatly, with pressure mounting in the south-east while grass grows in the north-west. There is no doubt that it has been a hugely challenging grazing season, with farmers now worried for the winter ahead as fodder runs low. According to Teagasc, there is an average of 4 months' feed in Leinster, 4.2 months for Munster, and 4.4 months for Connacht and Ulster. Some of the counties that were hit the hardest with drought - such as Carlow, Kilkenny, Laois and Kildare - have an average of 3.6 months. With land completely burnt in these areas, most farms will face into another month of feeding valuable winter fodder, bringing their total resources closer to 2.6 months.

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Explainer: How to secure the max €3,375 payment in new suckler scheme

The new suckler scheme, the 2026 Beef Welfare Scheme (BWS), opened for applications earlier this week. This year’s scheme is very similar in structure to last year’s edition. Up to €75/eligible calf is available for up to a maximum of 45 eligible calves, bringing the maximum total amount available under the scheme to €3,375/suckler herd. In order to secure the maximum total payment, a suckler farmer must have 45 eligible calves and complete three scheme actions. For the meal feeding action, scheme participants must introduce meal feeding for a period of four weeks pre-weaning and two weeks post-weaning. The aim of this action is to reduce the stress on calves at weaning time. Details of the vaccination programme being implemented and administered must also be recorded.

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How much are farmers paying for hay and silage?

Top Stories BeefDairySheepTillageMachineryNorthern Ireland Videos Podcasts Top Stories BeefDairySheepTillageMachineryNorthern Ireland Videos Podcasts How much are farmers paying for hay and silage? By Thomas Maher With rain offering some relief, farmers are now turning their attention to the next challenge - building up enough fodder in the yard to last through the winter. Agriland spoke to several farmers and industry associations to get an idea of average prices for hay and straw around the country. Feedback suggests hay is typically costing farmers around €40/bale for round or 4 X 4 bales and up to €50/bale when collected. Small square bales of hay are costing farmers typically between €4-€6/bale with quality being a key factor.

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Ag Science pays off: over half of Higher Level students land top grades

More than half of the 6,775 students who sat Higher Level Agricultural Science in this year's Leaving Cert got a H3 or better. The Leaving Cert results, which were released today (Friday, August 21), showed most students who sat the subject skipped Ordinary Level and opted for the Higher Level paper. More than 3,600 students were in the H1–H3 band, while roughly 2,400 were H4–H5, around 700 students were in the H6 or below band. When it came to Ordinary Level a total of 921 students received their results today. The vast majority of Ordinary Level candidates, about 76%, landed in the middle band (O3–O5) - but five students achieved the 01 grade. The exam which lasted for two-and-a-half hour written exam included short and long questions.

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Farmers advised to act soon to secure straw supplies

Teagasc has advised farmers to secure straw supplies amid a reported increase in demand in the south-east. The National Fodder and Food Security Committee (NFFSC) today (Friday, August 21) heard of the significant difficulties caused by drought on the tillage and horticulture sectors. This included impacts on crop performance, yields and production costs. Teagasc crops and potato specialist, Shay Phelan told the meeting that straw yields are low this year, at about 80-90% of normal, which is likely to increase the price. In 2024, the Baling Assistance Scheme, introduced by then agriculture minister Charlie McConalogue to encourage more tillage farmers to bale straw, boosted supplies to around 730,000 tonnes.

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Forage maize harvest expected to get underway in early September

The 2026 forage maize harvest looks set to get underway at the beginning of September, with many crops ready for cutting within the first fortnight of the month. This will be the earliest start to a maize harvest ever recorded in Ireland, with some crops reaching full maturation within 125 days of planting. Maizetech’s John Foley told Agriland: “Crops planted under plastic got off to a tremendous start and have never looked back, despite the drought." He noted that this year has seen a number of tillage farmers growing maize for the first time, particularly in the south-east. “In a number of instances, crops were grown without the use of plastic," Foley said. "And here crops have come under a degree of moisture stress, particularly those growing on light soils.

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Sinn Féin: Irish agriculture ‘facing a crisis’ on multiple fronts

The government has been urged by Sinn Féin today (Friday, August 21) to step up supports for farmers who are battling drought in some parts of the country. Sinn Féin spokesperson on Agriculture and Food, Martin Kenny, said Irish agriculture is "facing a real crisis on a number of fronts". Kenny said farmers, particularly in the south and east, are struggling with very dry conditions and zero grass growth over recent months. According to Met Éireann most soils are experiencing restrictions to growth with soil moisture deficits (SMDs) ranging between 25 and 9mm, highest in the southeast. In its latest farming commentary the national meteorological service said: "In the far northwest, soils are saturated while some poorly drained soils are waterlogged.

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Food producer prices rise by almost 3% since July 2025

Producer prices for food increased by almost 3% since July 2025 according to data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO). According to the Wholesale Price Index published today (Friday, August 21), producer prices for food products increased by 2.7% in the 12 months to July 2026. Meanwhile 'Food Products, Beverages & Tobacco Index' was up by 2.4%. Commenting on the data, statistician in the CSO Prices Division, Deirdre Toher said: “Wholesale price inflation showed an increase in July 2026 with a 3.2% growth in the overall Producer Price Index for manufacturing industries in the month. "The price index for export sales was up by 3.6% since June 2026, while the index for home sales grew by 0.8% in the month.

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22% of farms with fewer than 100 days feed available

One-in-five of farms surveyed by Teagasc have fewer than 100 days feed available, the National Fodder and Food Security Committee (NFFSC) heard. The committee met today (Friday, August 21) in Teagasc, Oak Park following a request from Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon. The committee, chaired by Mike Magan, includes representatives from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), Teagasc, Bord Bia, farm organisations, banks, industry representative bodies and the farming media. The meeting heard that while some farms are under pressure as a result of poor grass growth, particularly in the east, there are fodder supplies in the country. There were numerous calls from those at the meeting for the introduction of a subsidised transport scheme to allow fodder move to where it is needed.

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Govt urged to permanently scrap excise duties on fuel

Independent TD for Offaly, Carol Nolan, has said that the government’s decision not to proceed with the planned September 1 fuel excise increases represents “a clear and unavoidable admission that its approach to fuel taxation was driving the country toward a crisis”. In June, the government announced an extension of the temporary reductions to fuel excise and the National Oil Reserves Agency Levy (NORA). The measures resulted in an excise duty cut of 27c/L on petrol and 32c/L on diesel. The government had planned to restore rates to pre-reduction levels, starting from September 1 but today it confirmed it will not now do so. Deputy Nolan said that while the government is preparing to recall the Dáil next week to give effect to the delay, the move also shows that ministers were “on the brink of making a disastrous mistake that would have pushed workers, families and rural communitie…

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Mart report: Numbers through the ring rebound in Clare

Clare Co-Operative Mart held its weekly cattle sale in Ennis Mart on Thursday (August 20). with 700 cattle through the ring and prices up 10c/kg. It was a good size sale, with numbers rebounding after last week's sale saw less than 500 cattle through the ring. In a mart report published after the sale, it was noted that there was a good mix of stores and beef in the bullock ring, with the number of beef bullocks stabilising after a sharp fall last week. These bullocks saw a 10c/kg improvement with some impressive sales including the five Charolais-cross bullocks weighing on average 432kg that made €2,150/head at €4.97/kg. Some of the top sales from the beef bullock category included a 745kg Limousin-cross bullock that sold for €3,310 at €4.44/kg and a 645kg Charolais-cross bullock sold for €2,850 at €4.41/kg.

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Further reprieve as govt agrees not to increase fuel excise duty on Sept 1

The government has this afternoon (Friday August 21) decided not to reintroduce its original rate of excise duty on fuel from September 1. In June, the government announced an extension of the temporary reductions to fuel excise and the National Oil Reserves Agency Levy (NORA). The measures resulted in an excise duty cut of 27c/L on petrol and 32c/L on diesel. To avoid what it described as "any cliff edge removal of supports", it set out to gradually restore rates to pre-reduction levels, starting from September 1. However in recent weeks, momentum has been growing again in opposition to the return of fuel prices to the pre-conflict levels. Farmers and contractors in particular, as well as road hauliers have said that any increase in excise at this point could render their enterprises unviable.

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Green light to mow ACRES riparian zones for silage early

Farmers are permitted to mow riparian zones and margins for silage from today, Friday, August 21, the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has confirmed. The move comes "in recognition of the pressure on winter fodder arising from the prolonged period of dry weather in recent months," according to DAFM. DAFM has confirmed to Agriland that "mowing operations are permitted on and from August 21, 2026" for a number of actions in the Agri-Climate Rural Environment Scheme (ACRES). Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon said: "This will allow for earlier access for farmers to the off-takes from the almost 26,000ha of land covered by these ACRES actions." This flexibility is permitted in 2026 only.

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Watch: ‘We need to move now’ and act before fodder survey results

The fodder deficit is widening and according to the president of the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers' Association (ICMSA) Ireland cannot afford to wait for survey results before acting. According to Denis Drennan the shortage is expected to worsen over the next four to six weeks and he says the focus now must be on growing as much additional fodder as possible in Ireland over the next two months to help bridge the gap. A meeting of the National Fodder and Food Security Committee (NFFSC) is taking place today Friday (August 21). The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon has urged all farmers to complete a fodder budget. Drennan told Agriland that while he understands that it is important to know how much fodder there is in the country and also where the current deficit is sitting, he believes it is crucial to "start moving" on the issue.

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Giving winter oilseed rape the best possible start

The return of the rain in many areas of the country will encourage tillage farmers to get on with the planting of winter oilseed rape (OSR). Many growers are now seeing the benefits of including OSR in the farm crop rotation they follow, as it is an ideal break from cereal rotations and a good entry for first wheats. Other benefits include spreading the workload, soil structure improvement, and it can be used to control difficult grass weeds. In addition, using Green Area Index tools, many growers have been able to reduce the amount of nitrogen (N) required to grow OSR crops. This represents a significant cost saving, particularly at a time when all crop input costs remain exceptionally strong.

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Average calving interval down to 383 days in 2026

The average calving interval has reduced down from 388 days in 2022 to 383 days in 2026, according to the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF). It has also highlighted to farmers that the calving interval "remains one of the most important indicators of herd fertility". ICBF has outlined that the 2026 dairy calving statistics are now available through the latest Dairy HerdPlus Calving Reports. The 2026 dairy calving statistics are based on data from over 13,500 dairy herds with 30 or more dairy cows. It said that the latest statistics show that the "national performance has continued to improve". According to the ICBF, the five-day reduction "reflects improved reproductive efficiency and supports more compact calving patterns, greater milk production potential and improved farm profitability".

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How many extra calves would Irish farmers need to rear if calf exports ended?

Top Stories BeefDairySheepTillageMachineryNorthern Ireland Videos Podcasts Top Stories BeefDairySheepTillageMachineryNorthern Ireland Videos Podcasts How many extra calves would Irish farmers need to rear if calf exports ended? By Breifne O'Brien The calf export market is a key outlet for Irish calves bred from the dairy herd, with over 215,000 calves exported from Ireland to date this year. These calves are exported to customers in Northern Ireland as well as further afield to countries such as the Netherlands, Spain, Italy, Croatia, and others. In the past two years, the prices being paid for calves has increased significantly. Export customers' willingness to continue to pay these higher prices for Irish calves is a positive indication of calf performance on these arrival farms overseas.

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Sommet de l’Élevage 2026: 4 days at heart of Europe’s livestock industry

As livestock farming continues to evolve in response to economic pressures, animal health challenges and the transition towards more sustainable production systems, the Sommet de l'Élevage remains one of Europe's key meeting points for farmers and livestock professionals. From October 6 to 9, 2026, the exhibition will return to Clermont-Ferrand, France, for its 35th edition, bringing together 1,800 exhibitors and around 120,000 professional visitors, including 6,000 international visitors from across the globe. Whether you are looking for the latest livestock technologies, new breeding genetics, machinery, animal health solutions or practical ideas to improve farm performance, the Sommet offers four days dedicated entirely to the future of livestock farming.

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Video: ‘This is our Croke Park’ – competitors set for Ploughing 2026

Competitors are gearing up for a return to Screggan, Co. Offaly, as the National Ploughing Championships prepares to celebrate its 95th year. Speaking to Agriland at the launch of next month's show, the assistant managing director of the National Ploughing Association (NPA), Anna Marie McHugh, said that she was "delighted" to return to Screggan for one more year, with next year's show set to be held a different location. McHugh believes that the central location and road infrastructure around Screggan has helped to make it a successful venue - particularly as the site stood up to difficult weather conditions last year. "We've had the worst of storms here and still the venue has worked," the NPA assistant managing director added.

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AHDB launches new Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus management tool

The Agricultural and Horticultural Development Board has launched a new tool to help reduce the impact of Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus (BYDV) in winter wheat and winter barley. Based on decades of aphid biology science, virus epidemiology studies and computer modelling, the new tool considers many more risk factors than the previous T-sum temperature tool, which has been available for several years. It also puts crop economics at its heart, so growers can make informed sowing-date and risk-based spray decisions. The new tool is powered by a model trained on the bird cherry-oat aphid. The insect is now known to be a significant BYDV vector, mainly due to the relatively high numbers that fly in the autumn.

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Profits at Hilton Foods Ireland fall in ‘challenging’ trading conditions

Hilton Foods (Ireland) Limited recorded an operating profit of €1,284,436 in 2025, down from €2,258,785 in the previous year. The Irish subsidary of the Hilton Food Group operates a meat packing business supplying major international food retailers from its base in Drogheda, Co. Louth. Financial statements for the year ended December 27, 2025, show the company's turnover for the year was €191,268,981, up from €159,563,689 in 2024. Profit for the financial year stood at €496,109, compared to €1,688,911 in 2024. Hilton Foods sources its ingredients from "quality suppliers", which it then processes and packs in its "modern retail packing plant" for onward distribution to its customers. A factory extension which began in 2024 was completed and put into use last year.

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Fodder: Minister ‘doing the groundwork’ before action taken

The government is gathering evidence on the fodder situation before deciding on the next steps, according to Minister for Enterprise, Peter Burke. Speaking at the launch of the National Ploughing Championships 2026 today (Thursday, August 20), Minister Burke said that the Department for Agriculture has been gathering evidence on the extent of fodder shortages across the country. A meeting of the National Fodder and Food Security Committee (NFFSC) will take place tomorrow (Friday August 21) against the backdrop of farmers being forced to use winter fodder reserves due to poor grass growth during the dry spell. Minister Burke outlined that the government now needs to assess the available data before deciding what action may be required.

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Met Éireann issues nationwide potato blight advisory

Met Éireann has today (Thursday, August 20) issued a nationwide advisory for potato blight. The national forecaster said that weather conditions conducive to the spread of potato blight will occur from 1:08p.m today until 7:00p.m, Thursday, August 27. All counties in the Republic of Ireland are affected. Met Éireann said there will be opportunities for spraying on Saturday and Sunday, August 22 and 23, apart from a few showers. Potato blight is a plant disease caused by a fungal-like organism called Phytophthora infestans. The pathogen spreads rapidly in humid weather in the foliage of potatoes and tomatoes, causing the foliage to decay and the potato/tomato to be infected. Looking at the national forecast, Met Éireann has said that there will be some bright or sunny spells for the rest of today, but predicted showers too and some will be heavy, especially in parts of the east and…

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Agri-worker numbers down nearly 4,000 year-on-year

The number of people working in the agri-sector in Ireland fell by 3.6%, or 3,900 year-on-year, according to the latest data. Figures released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) today (Thursday, August 20), showed that in Q2 2026, 105,800 people were working in the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sectors. For the same period last year, that number was 109,700. Actual hours worked in these sectors declined year-on-year too. For Q2 2026, 4.6 million hours were worked in these sectors, down from 4.9 million for Q2 2025. Broken down by gender, the agri-industry is still male dominated. In Q2 2026, 88,000 males worked in the industry while there were 17,800 female workers. In related industries, those working in the wholesale and retail trades also dropped slightly year-on-year; from 299,100 in Q2 2025 to 289,100 in Q2 2026, a fall of 3.3%.

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Would you pay 6c more for a carrot to ensure Irish growers remain viable?

Top Stories BeefDairySheepTillageMachineryNorthern Ireland Videos Podcasts Top Stories BeefDairySheepTillageMachineryNorthern Ireland Videos Podcasts Would you pay 6c more for a carrot to ensure Irish growers remain viable? By Stella Meehan Irish carrot growers are warning that the economics of producing Ireland's favourite vegetable are becoming increasingly unsustainable. This is due to production costs rising by approximately 100% since 2020 while retail carrot prices have increased by just 40% over the same period. Faced with rising production costs, unsustainable market returns and increasing climate-related challenges, including recent drought conditions, growers are warning that urgent action is needed to ensure the long-term viability of Ireland’s favourite vegetable.

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Preparations for Ploughing 2026 ramp up at Screggan, Tullamore

With just over three weeks to go, the countdown is on as the fields of Screggan, Tullamore, Co. Offaly are transformed ahead of the 95th National Ploughing Championships, taking place from September 15-17. Today’s (Thursday, August 20) official launch at the site in Screggan gave a flavour of what is in store this September, bringing together machinery, livestock, food and entertainment as preparations continue for the three-day event. National Ploughing Association (NPA) managing director Anna May McHugh said: “There is a great excitement around the site now as everything begins to take shape. "Reaching our 95th championships is a very special milestone and we are really looking forward to welcoming everyone back to Screggan.

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FCI writes to government to seek support on fuel costs

The Association of the Farm and Forestry Contractors in Ireland (FCI) has said it has written to the government this week to call for targeted financial support to deal with escalating green diesel prices. According to the association, some contractor members of the FCI have admitted to "being terrified" of calling their fuel suppliers to get quotes. The average price for FCI member contractors is currently around €1.49/L, some 70% higher than the 2025 average price of 88c/L. The association warned that the increase is not a short-term one. The FCI noted that a contractor using 100,000L of fuel is facing an additional cost of approximately €69,000, compared with the 88c/L. "This cost cannot simply be absorbed by the contractor without ultimately threatening the viability of the business," the group said.

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Can Irish straw and grains help alleviate the fodder crisis?

Top Stories BeefDairySheepTillageMachineryNorthern Ireland Videos Podcasts Top Stories BeefDairySheepTillageMachineryNorthern Ireland Videos Podcasts Can Irish straw and grains help alleviate the fodder crisis? By Richard Halleron IGGG’s Clive Carter said “There is also a large carryover of oats and other Irish cereals, which can be included in livestock rations at the present time. “Irish grains have never represented better value-for-money from an animal feeding perspective.” The grain growers group will also be participating in the meeting of the National Fodder and Food Security Committee (NFFSC) planned for Teagasc Oak Park tomorrow (August 21). Carter said: “Harvest 2026 has been an extremely challenging form a grain yield perspective.

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Farmers impacted by dry weather urged to seek financial support early

Farmers with cashflow concerns after the recent dry weather are being urged to engage as soon as possible with their bank, financial adviser or accountant to explore their options. Bank of Ireland has said that its agri and business advisers are proactively engaging with farming businesses and making tailored financial support measures available to help them manage both immediate pressures and longer-term resilience. The bank said it anticipates an increase in support queries in the short-term, as farming businesses evaluate the financial and operational effects of prolonged dry weather. It outlined that it has a range of measures designed to help alleviate the pressures currently facing farmers.

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What is the average income for a farmer in Northern Ireland?

Top Stories BeefDairySheepTillageMachineryNorthern Ireland Videos Podcasts Top Stories BeefDairySheepTillageMachineryNorthern Ireland Videos Podcasts What is the average income for a farmer in Northern Ireland? By Stella Meehan Total Income from Farming (TIFF) in Northern Ireland increased by 40.5% (35.6% in real terms) from £736 million in 2024 to £1.03 billion in 2025. That's according to the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) which has published the first (provisional) estimate for farm incomes in 2025. Revisions have been made to previous years. TIFF represents the return on own labour, management input and own capital invested for all those with an entrepreneurial involvement in farming.

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Sire selection for the autumn-calving herd

As we get nearer to the autumn calving season, it may be time to start considering looking at what bulls are suitable for your breeding strategy. It can be hard to even consider the breeding season when calving has not yet even started, but the next few months will be so busy it will be tough to make time to sit down and look over the bulls properly. As well as that, the sires you put to your cows will dictate your herd's productivity, profitability, and ability to fulfil your winter milk contract, so you do not want to be late to the market when bulls begin to sell out. When looking at your breeding strategy for this winter, time and effort must be put into the plan to ensure best genetic gain is achieved.

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Mart report: Heifer makes €14.46/kg at GVM Abbeyfeale sale

Top Stories BeefDairySheepTillageMachineryNorthern Ireland Videos Podcasts Top Stories BeefDairySheepTillageMachineryNorthern Ireland Videos Podcasts Mart report: Heifer makes €14.46/kg at GVM Abbeyfeale sale By Thomas Maher Golden Vale Marts' special weanling sale in Abbeyfeale Mart, Co. Limerick on Saturday (August 15) saw a strong trade as several animals broke the €6.00/kg barrier. The stand-out sale of the day was for the Champion heifer, a 370kg Belgian Blue-cross weanling heifer that sold for €5,350 at €14.46/kg. Another 370kg Belgian Blue-cross weanling heifer sold for €2,620 at €7.08/kg, while a 440kg Belgian Blue-cross weanling heifer sold for €3,050 at €6.93/kg. Speaking to Agriland after the sale, Abbeyfeale Mart's Michael Ward was very happy with the day, considering the uncertainty in the market as drought, export concerns, and factory cuts dominated discussions ringsi…

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Bluetongue cases jump to 493 in UK in current season

The UK has recorded 493 cases of bluetongue so far this season, according to the latest figures from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). The first case of bluetongue virus serotype 3 (BTV-3) in the current season was confirmed on July 10. There have been no cases of bluetongue serotype 8 (BTV-8) in the current bluetongue season. A further 19 new cases of BTV-3 were confirmed in England on August 18, 2026. All were tested following reports of suspicious clinical signs. Of these, 15 cases involved sheep and four involved cattle. All cases presented with clinical signs typical of those seen in recent cases. One new case of BTV-3 in cattle was confirmed in Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland on August 18.

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Kinisla in ‘direct contact’ with milk suppliers yet to sign new contract

Kinisla has said it is in "direct contact" with milk suppliers who have not signed its new milk supply and purchase agreement. The processor has said that the "vast majority" of its suppliers have signed the new contract, but did not confirm an exact number. In April, Kinisla presented a new contract to its milk suppliers, replacing the previous contract, which expired on April 30. Suppliers were given until August 4 to sign the new agreement. It is understood that Kinisla sent a letter to suppliers this week who have not yet returned their signed agreement, reminding them to do so as soon as possible. Kinisla reiterated that Kerry Creameries Limited (KCL), the wholly owned subsidiary of Kinisla that actually purchases milk from farmers, has no obligation to continue buying milk from suppliers who did not sign and return the contract by August 4.

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Product made with Irish oats recalled by FSAI

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) has issued a recall notice for a product made with Irish oats. The notice relates to undeclared allergens in a mispacked batch of Flahavan's Chocolate & Hazelnut Irish Oaty Flapjacks. The affected batch was mispacked with Cranberry & Orange inner wrappers. The product contains nuts and soyabeans which are declared on the outer box but not declared on the individual inner packaging. The FSAI has stated that this may make the batch unsafe for consumers who are allergic to, or intolerant of, nuts and soyabeans and therefore, these consumers should not eat the implicated batch. The affected batch is being recalled. Point-of-sale notices will be displayed in Dunnes Stores stores.

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Gallery: Virginia Agricultural Show winners from the beef breed classes

The 83rd Virginia Agricultural Show took place today (Wednesday, August 19) in Cavan. Large crowds attended despite the few heavy downpours which occurred in the afternoon. While the timing of the downpours during the show may not have been ideal, most farmers were delighted to see a reasonable fall of rain after the prolonged dry spell in many parts of the country. Judges in the beef rings had their work cut out judging over 60 beef breed classes on the day. As the event progressed, the final classes were some of the most notable at the annual agricultural event. The Univet Ireland and Virginia Show Commercial Heifer Champion was won by a February 2025 born heifer owned by Kaine Treanor from Co. Monaghan.

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Coolroehouse Abbott Ann is the 2026 Baileys Champion Cow

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BSE rears its head in a cow in Scotland

A case of classical bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), also known as 'Mad Cow Disease' has been confirmed in a cow on a farm in Dumfries and Galloway in Scotland. Precautionary movement restrictions have been put in place on the offspring of the animal and its ‘cohort’ at the impacted premises. According to the Scottish Government, further investigations to identify the origin of the disease are ongoing which is standard procedure for a confirmed case of classical BSE. The case was identified as a result of routine intensive BSE surveillance and stringent control measures that are in place. The animal did not enter the human food chain and Food Standards Scotland has confirmed there is no risk to human health as a result of this isolated case.

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ICSA ‘disappointed’ at lack of immediate ‘concrete’ fodder measures

The Irish Cattle and Sheep Association (ICSA) has said it was left disappointed by the outcome of yesterday's stakeholder meetings on fodder supplies, claiming that "no concrete measures" were agreed. ICSA president Sean McNamara said farmers "need action now" as pressure continues to build on fodder supplies due to prolonged dry weather. "We went into the meeting convened by [Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon] to spell out what is happening on farms and to discuss practical measures to deal with what is coming," McNamara commented. "We came away very disappointed that there are no concrete measures being put in place," he added. According to the ICSA president, it is "not good enough to simply monitor the situation".

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Training scheme for safer ATV use on UK farms launched

A fully funded, industry-accredited training scheme has been launched to help UK farmers and agricultural workers use all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) safely, confidently and responsibly. The 2026 ATV Bursary Scheme is being run by the Farm Safety Foundation, in partnership with Lantra and Logic. This year's scheme will fund 50 Lantra-accredited ATV training places for people working in agriculture or studying at a land-based college or university in the UK. Lantra provides training and qualifications to enhance careers in the land-based and environment sector throughout the UK and Ireland. Each successful applicant will receive an ATV helmet from Logic, which manufactures ATV-related equipment, to reinforce the importance of combining practical skills with the right protective equipment.

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Over 100ha of Coillte forests impacted by fire in 2026

Approximately 80 fires have been recorded across the Coillte estate so far in 2026, impacting an estimated 100ha of its forests, the forestry body has said. This year has seen a proliferation of wildfires across Ireland and several European countries. In July, Slievenamon in Co. Tipperary saw a wildfire that lasted over a week and spread to a Coillte forest. A spokesperson for Coillte told Agriland: “The recent wildfire at Slievenamon involved a large multi-agency response. "These incidents require a significant mobilisation of resources, with Coillte staff and contractors working closely with fire services, the Army Air Corps, landowners, farmers and local communities. “While major wildfire events remain relatively infrequent, they can have significant local impacts when they occur.

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National fodder committee to meet on Friday

A meeting of the National Fodder and Food Security Committee (NFFSC) will take place on Friday (August 21). Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon had requested that the committee reconvene due to the impact of the prolonged dry weather on grass growth, fodder supplies and crop production, particularly in the east and south. The committee, chaired by Mike Magan, was established by then agriculture minister Charlie McConalogue in response to the impact of the war in Ukraine. It was put in place to monitor and respond to emerging risks to supplies of fodder and rising input costs. The committee includes representatives from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), Teagasc, Bord Bia, farm organisations, banks, industry representative bodies and the farming media.

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Watch: All roads lead to Virginia for 83rd show

From near and far, crowds flocked to Co. Cavan today (Wednesday, August 19) for the 83rd Virginia Agricultural Show. More than 10,000 visitors were expected to attend the show with some people travelling as far as the United States to attend the event today. The showgrounds played host to a wide variety of livestock competitions, with farmers both young and old putting their handling skills to the test in the ring. The show's top competition, the 2026 Diageo Baileys Irish Champion Dairy Cow, features a selection of Ireland's finest dairy cattle, with owners keen to impress the judges and walk away with the €3,000 cash prize. Alongside the cattle, other rings across the showgrounds saw sheep, goats, horses and dogs go head to head in competitions for rosettes and other prizes.

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€28m suckler scheme to open shortly with bluetongue vaccine option

The 2026 Beef Welfare Scheme (BWS) worth €28 million will open this week for applications. Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon has confirmed that that this year’s scheme will be very similar in structure to last year’s version. "It contains the same broad range of straightforward measures, along with the new inclusion of an additional option to vaccinate animals against the current strain of the bluetongue virus (BTV-3)," Minister Heydon said. "Bluetongue vaccination has been allowed in Ireland since the beginning of the year and in March I announced that it would be funded as an optional action in both the 2026 beef and sheep welfare schemes. "I would urge livestock owners to consult a private veterinary practitioner when deciding on the best vaccination strategy for their particular enterprise.”

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Some contractors ‘left with no option but to reduce workforce’

The body representing farm contractors has said that some of its members have had to reduce their workforces due to a loss of anticipated work. The Association of Farm and Forestry Contractors in Ireland (FCI) said that contactor businesses are facing "a perfect storm" of reduced work due to a lack of grass to be cut, and cash-flow challenges later in the year. The FCI is called for an "urgent meeting" with the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to discuss the challenges faced by its member businesses. The association has also called for the government to establish a dedicated loan scheme through the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) for farm contractors to provide affordable working capital finance to contracting businesses.

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