Macra scholarship to fund foreign study trip for young sheep farmer

MACRA na Feirme is inviting applications for its RDS Sheep Scholarship, a travel and educational bursary for one young sheep farmer.

The Royal Dublin Society has teamed up with Macra to identify a suitable candidate. The deadline for applications is April 11.

Macra president Michael Gowing said: “The RDS Sheep Scholarship provides a unique opportunity for a young sheep farmer to travel abroad and gain valuable insight into production methods on an international level.

“The experience gained can then be used to progress the sheep enterprise on their farm.

“Given the current optimism and vibrancy in the sector, this award is of great importance to the sector as a whole.”

Applicants can be full-time or part-time sheep farmers or students aspiring to become a sheep farmer. The eligible applicants must be under 35 years of age on the date of application and a member of Macra.The winner will be expected to undertake self-organised international travel for a minimum of six weeks to a value of €3,000 for the benefit of learning about sheep farming and gaining knowledge that will subsequently benefit the individual in Ireland.

RDS committee of agriculture chairman, Jim Flanagan, said: “The RDS committee of agriculture are delighted to be associated with Macra na Feirme in organising this award and are very optimistic for the future of the industry by the growing number of talented young people opting for a career in sheep farming.”

Application forms are available at www.macra.ie, and completed forms should be returned to Barry McWilliams, Macra na Feirme, Irish Farm Centre, Bluebell, Dublin 12.