Animal recording event proves great success
Farmers who hosted field trips were praised by overall committee hosts ICBF, for their openness in providing information, and hospitality extended to committee delegates.
Teagasc advisors on the farms also helped ensure that delegates were well briefed on the challenges facing Irish farmers.
Delegates had the opportunity to sample the full range of high quality, Irish-origin, foods, thanks to the Irish Country Market meal and associated social event, and stalls from the Mahon Point market setting up in the grounds of the conference hotel, the Rochestown Park.
Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney highlighted Ireland’s vision for its animal industry to play a major role in meeting the food needs of the world’s rapidly growing population, when he addressed committee delegates.
Andrew Cromie’s presentation to the opening session highlighted the major economic impact that ICBF’s initiatives have on the profitability of dairy production in Ireland.
Over 100 papers were presented covering a wide range of topics relevant to animal recording and genetic evaluation of dairy, beef and sheep.
Feedback from delegates was very complementary, according to ICBF. Copies of the committee presentations are available on the www.icar2012.ie website.
