Teagasc in Tipperary expects 50% more milk

Teagasc in Tipperary expects a 50% milk supply increase in the region over the next five years, following consultation with stakeholders for the regional 2015-2020 advisory strategic plan, which was launched this week.

Teagasc Manager for Tipperary Donal Mullane said key targets in the plan include one-to-one service and training for new entrants and expanding dairy clients.

He said, “We have seen a huge demand for our Green Cert/Distance education courses, and our new courses will help farmers implement low carbon environmentally friendly and safe farming. This is an exciting time for agriculture in the region.” Stabilising suckler cow numbers, maximising discussion groups, and increasing the number of green cert and distance learning graduates, are also planned.

Advisors target 50% of clients to move to lower carbon farming, and complete the Carbon Navigator assessment. Teagasc plans a joint approach with Animal Health Ireland to improve milk quality and livestock disease status in the region.

Teagasc Board member Tommy Cooke said there has been a 50% decrease in advisory numbers since 2008. He said it is imperative to maintain a strong advisory service in the region, and that existing vacancies and impending retirements are replaced immediately.