AS lambing season approaches, gardaí in Donegal have once again reminded dog owners to keep their pets under control at all times. In an appeal on social media, the public was urged to keep their dogs away from lambing ewes, as they are easily distressed. A garda spokesperson said: “By being a responsible dog owner, you […]
HSA inspection campaign to focus on livestock safety ahead of calving season
THE Health and Safety Authority (HSA) began a two weeks farm safety inspection campaign this week, focusing on the safe management of livestock in the lead-up to the busy calving season. Inspectors will be visiting farms to highlight key risks and ensure farmers have appropriate controls in place when working with cattle and other livestock. […]
‘Government has abandoned Irish farmers on Mercosur’
Donegal TD and Sinn Féin Spokesperson on Finance Pearse Doherty has accused Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and Lowry Independents of a massive failure on the Mercosur trade deal which was widely opposed by farmers. Sinn Féin will also bring another motion to the Dáil next week demanding accountability on the issue. “The Mercosur trade deal […]
Sustaining a way of life on the Inishowen Peninsula
TOMMY MULLIN is a full-time farmer managing a flock of 600 lambing ewes and 20 suckler cows on a farm in Inishowen, located only a few kilometres from Malin Head. Like generations before him, he has farmed on the Inishowen Peninsula for as long as he can remember. “Basically, since I was knee high,” he […]
HSA launches campaign to tackle silent killers on farms
THE Health and Safety Authority (HSA) will begin a week-long inspection campaign today, Monday, December 8. The campaign is aimed at improving farmers’ health and wellbeing which is a critical factor in reducing serious injuries and fatalities on farms. Farmers are at higher risk of certain health and wellness conditions due to the nature of […]
Carberry hosts Donegal IFA representative in Brussels
MEP Nina Carberry this week hosted a joint delegation from the Irish Farmers’ Association and the Ulster Farmers’ Union during their visit to the European Parliament in Brussels. The group included Donegal IFA member Christine Friel. Carberry brought the delegation on a guided tour of the Parliament and outlined her work across key committees. Advertisement […]
Bluetongue case is very concerning- IFA
THE IFA President said he is very disappointed following the confirmation of a case of Bluetongue in Co Down. This comes as Francie Gorman said everyone in farming had worked diligently to avoid this scenario over the past 18 months since the virus was first detected in England. “Farmers are actively playing their part in […]
Veterinary programme is more than a new degree, it shows the north west is worthy of investment
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by Sabrina Sweeney There’s often much talk about the importance of keeping our young people in the county, of creating pathways that allow them not just to stay, but to thrive. The launch of the new Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine and Surgery at ATU Letterkenny this week is one of the most significant steps in […]
Report calls for national strategy to diversify intensive beef and dairy farming
A NEW report from Talamh Beo has detailed a series of measures that will help Ireland reduce methane emissions from agriculture while transferring control of the country’s food system from the agribusiness sector to farmers, food producers, and consumers. The grassroots sustainable farming organisation launched its Methane Matters Position Paper at Buswells Hotel on Molesworth […]
Anger over proposed cuts to farm schemes
A FRUSTRATED councillor has voiced his concerns on behalf of local farmers over proposed cuts to vital schemes. Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon, is proposing to reduce the National Sheep Welfare Scheme and the Suckler Cow Scheme. At present, the schemes provide payments of up to €25 per sheep and €225 […]