Large numbers of dairy farmers expected at Teagasc conferences

DAIRY farmers, who are facing unprecedented change, are expected to turn out in large numbers at the Teagasc national dairy conferences next month.

Milk price supports have been reducing over recent years. Upward pressure on costs has resulted in a price-cost squeeze impacting on dairy farming incomes.

And all involved in the dairy industry are facing critical decisions for the future of their businesses.

It is against this background that the conferences will take place on the theme: A New Vision for the Irish Dairy Industry.

Teagasc, national and international speakers will outline their vision at the South Court Hotel in Limerick on November 15 and at the Slieve Russell Hotel, Ballyconnell, Co Cavan, on November 16.

Dr John Penno, executive chairman of Synlait in New Zealand, will travel to Ireland to address both conferences. He will share his experiences of all stages of the milk chain in New Zealand.

In Limerick, Dr Noel Coakley, Irish Dairy Board chief executive, will outline how Irish dairy products can compete in the world market.

In Cavan, Eddie Hughes of Enterprise Ireland, will address the issue of new investment in the industry.

Dr Sinclair Mayne, Agri-food and Biosciences Institute in Northern Ireland, will look at the challenges facing researchers to ensure milk production remains competitive.

Dairy farmers John Macnamara and Martin Flanagan will address the Limerick and Cavan conferences, giving their perspectives on the changes necessary to secure the future of their farming business.

Teagasc experts will address issues including the value of quota, investment decisions, training needs of on-farm workers, wintering options and contract rearing of replacement heifers.