Country Life with MJ Clery: Recent Episodes
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On the programme this week Pat O Toole from the Irish Farmers Journal chats about this weeks German general election and what the result will mean for EU policy and in turn Irish agriculture. Tom Cox auctioneer for the Irish Charolais Society speaks about the recent sale in Tullamore where star ratings were not displayed for the first time and it's impact on the trade. Padraig Egan from forestry group SEEFA gives an account of the huge amount of damage that forest owners sustained in the recent storm where new Minister Michael Healy Rae is being asked to aid with compensation for those affected. Noeleen Brereton from Teagasc gives an insight into a recent study done on when suckler cows are most likely to calve in a 24 hour period with the results making for interesting reading. Nick Kearney from Co. Offaly chats about an upcoming calf sale in Tullamore in aid of Offaly School of Special Education and Alice Doyle from the IFA gives an update on farmers waiting on ACRES payments.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Gordon Cobbe from GVM Tullamore on the current red hot cattle trade where prices are at an all time high. Ollie Ryan from Midland Vet speaks about the newly formed Merchants Alliance Ireland and how the current rules on purchasing dosing from merchants without a prescription is set to change in June of this year but they are lobbying for this to be delayed. Pat O Brien from the ICMSA speaks about how TAMS grants should be available on diesel generators as well as PTO driven generators to facilitate farmers with robot milkers. Paul Dillon from calfpens.ie speaks about his Colostrum Thaw Unit which will defrost 4 litres of colostrum from frozen in 25 minutes saving valuable time during calving season.
60% Nutrient Storage Grant announced. This and much more on Countrylife.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Eugene Doyle from FRS on the dangers of operating a chainsaw when clearing storm damage. Eugene encourages all operators to undertake a basic training course in advance of using this type of equipment. Martin Merrick from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about the new 60% TAMS Nutrient Storage Grant which is available for a variety of storage systems, it is important to note that farmers must have adequate storage for the duration of their closed period before then can apply for this grant which in itself is counter intuitive and something that needs to be reviewed by the Department of Agriculture. Shay Phelan from Teagasc speaks about a Spring Tillage Seminar taking place in Tullamore where the outlook for the sector for 2025 amongst other items will be discussed. Fiona O Malley from mental health charity Turn2Me speaks gives an overview on "Catfishing" and how people of all ages need to be wary and cautious of individuals online.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Professor Frank O Mara from Teagasc about their recent publication Advancing Innovation, Sustainability and Technical Performance of the Agri-Food Sector in 2024 where water quality, the age profile of farmers and fertiliser usage amongst other areas are examined. Lorcan Roche Kelly from the Irish Farmers Journal chats about the economic impact the Trump administration will have on Irish exports and how as a result of the high value of our exports to North America it is unlikely tariffs will have a huge effect on Irish farmers. Dale Kavanagh from dalekavanaghsteel.ie speaks about his Laois based business where his Quick Cage for transporting calves has become a viral sensation on Tik Tok with over 2 million views. Nigel Sweetnam IFA Poultry Chair chats about his recent meeting with the newly appointed EU Commissioner for Agriculture Christophe Hansen where the Mercosur agreement was discussed and how it would have a huge impact on the Irish poultry sector.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Declan Hanrahan IFA Beef Chair who is attending the 70th Annual IFA AGM, the main topic up for discussion is the visit of EU Commissioner for Food Christophe Hansen where Mercosur and our derogation will be the main items on the agenda. Stephen Robb from the Irish Farmers Journal chats about a landmark High Court ruling relating to a Co. Laois based wind development where the judge overturned An Bord Pleanála's decision and allowed the development to take place citing our Climate Laws as the overriding legislation. The Teagasc Sheep Conference takes place next week and Edward Egan chats about the differing areas that will be highlighted on the night from sheep handling facilities to ewe body scoring. IFAC have just launched their Irish Farm Survey for 2025 and Philip O Connor from the group chats about their findings including the fact that 23% of respondents say that the biggest barrier to succession is that the lifestyle does not appeal to the next generation.
On the programme this week MJ chats to ICMSA president Denis Drennan about the recent Foot and Mouth outbreak in Germany which has been contained but further vigilance is required especially when people are travelling to Ireland from to this area. Eoin O Catháin from the Irish Whiskey Association chats about a recent collaboration they have made with Maynooth University regarding a distilling course. With Bord Bia figures showing whiskey exports topping 1 billion euro for the first time in 2024, there is a huge demand for talent in this area. Alan Dillon from Teagasc Dairy Beef 500 speaks about an upcoming farm walk in Borris in Ossory focusing on calf care and an upcoming webinar which looks at bringing dairy beef calves through to finish.
The first programme of 2025 sees MJ chat to John Murray from Bord Bia on the Food and Beverage export report of 2024 which sees a new record set where Irish exports have topped 17 billion euro for the first time. The UK still being our biggest trading partner while Africa imported almost 1 billion euro worth of our produce are some of the areas up for discussion. With sub zero temperatures sweeping across the midlands this week, Francie Gorman from the IFA chats about how farmer safety is paramount during these tough conditions. Pat O Brien from the ICMSA speaks about what cohort of farmers are entitled to TAMS grants for LESS equipment while Michael Farrelly from the FTMTA speaks about tractor sales in 2024 and which county in the midlands had the most new purchases during the last 12 months.
This week MJ chats to Phelim O Neill from the Irish Farmers Journal about the recently published Agri Food Regulator's report about what factories are being paid for beef, a question which farmers have been asking for a long time and with light finally being shed on the financials of the industry what will be uncovered? PJ Lynam and Nikolay Sezonov from the Tullamore Tractor run join MJ in studio to speak about the event taking place this Christmas which has raised over four hundred thousand euro for charity since its inception. With the ICSA presidency up for grabs, Sean McNamara and Dan Lynam go head to head - they give an account of their vision for the role should they be elected. Vincent Griffith from the Irish Grassland Association chats about their annual event which is taking place next month.
On the programme this week Blathnáid Gallagher from the Galway Wool Co - Op chats to MJ about the Galway sheep breed. Blathnáid feels that native wool needs a direct route to market and that companies selling "so called" Irish products such as Aran and Tweed using southern hemisphere wool need to use Irish wool. Alan Crowe from the Hereford Society chats about an upcoming sale in Tullamore while Adam Woods from the Irish Farmers Journal gives the latest from Brussels on the Mercosur deal which would allow South American beef access to the EU. Dr. Shivani Pathania from Teagasc chats about the recent TV show "10 Things To Know About" which showed the research that is ongoing in relation to food packaging and how apple peel could be a real alternative to plastic as a compostable source of food packaging.
The General Election takes centre stage on Countrylife this week with Pat O Toole from the Irish Farmers Journal giving a rundown on the results with a particular focus on both farming candidates nationwide and victorious candidates from Laois, Offaly and Westmeath. Martin McElearney chats as the newly elected chair of the IFA Dairy Committee where he feels dairy farmers are being unreasonably burdened with extra cost as a result of nitrate rules. Alan Dillon from Teagasc chats about an upcoming Dairy Beef 500 Webinar in advance of the spring calving season just around the corner. Padraig Egan from the forestry group SEEFA speaks about the extremely poor year that 2024 was for planting as a result of the government's rules and regulations, the hope is that the new government will allowing planting in a quicker way with less red tape.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Macra President Elaine Houlihan in advance of this weeks General Election where the organisation are encouraging all candidates to champion the cause of rural Ireland if elected. Nevan McKiernan from the Irish Farmers Journal chats about the recent Winter Fair in Carrick on Shannon which saw a huge turnout and huge prices being paid for stock at the Leitrim venue. Malachy Hand from the West Region Texel Club chats about their upcoming female sale and Michael Flanagan gives a mention to the Athlone Show Christmas Tractor Run taking place this weekend. Denis Drennan from the ICMSA chats about their annual AGM and how a positive end to 2024 will have farmers in good spirits ahead of 2025. Bruce Thompson from Co. Laois speaks about the newly published Farming for Nature Handbook which will make an ideal stocking filler.
On the programme this week MJ chats to a group of TY students from Birr in Co. Offaly who were victorious in the Irish Angus Schools Competition and have been given the opportunity to rear five angus cattle through to beef. MJ spoke to Jack O Meara, Joey McLoughney, Ben Younge and Moya Guinan on the O Meara family farm in Coolderry about the experience so far and their plan with the cattle going forward. Ciara Lynch from Dairy Women Ireland chats about their organisation in advance of their annual conference this weekend. Joe Patton gives an outline of the Teagasc Annual Dairy Conference taking place next week where as always a focus will be on maintaining sustainable and profitable dairy herds. Adam Woods from the Irish Farmers Journal chats about the strong beef trade and how it shows no signs of abating in the near future as well as an update on Tullamore Farm.
Country Life with MJ Clery every Wednesday from 7pm on Midlands 103. Keep up with everything agriculture and beyond.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Nicky Byrne from Teagasc about their recent Dairy Beef Calf Conference where margins of over €500 per acre were displayed from highly stocked early maturing steer systems using Aberdeen Angus calves. John Farrell from the Irish Grassland Association chats about their upcoming event entitled "Proud to be an Irish farmer and food producer". Stuart Rodgers a farmer from Co. Kildare who is presenting at the Bio Farm Conference 2024 chats about biodynamic farming and how this system of organic farming is undergoing a resurgence as farmers look to alternative farming methods. Joe Gorman from Garryhinch Wood Exotic Mushrooms chats about his business and their recent success at the National Organic Awards. The business which started growing traditional white mushrooms had to cease trading as a result of Brexit and have since completely changed their model to growing exotic organic mushrooms.
On the programme this week Aidan Brennan from the Irish Farmers Journal chats to MJ live from Washington DC where election fever is really starting to ramp up with Donald Trump edging the polls at the moment. Seamus McMenamin from Bord Bia chats about the sheep trade where demand is strong currently. He also chats about how one third of sheep farmers are not quality assured and this is having an impact when Bord Bia are selling lamb abroad as European consumers have extremely high standards when purchasing meat. Tom Cushen from Co. Laois is a cancer survivor and he speaks about upcoming free health checks being offered by the IFA around the country. Tom advocates the importance of regular health checks. Michael O Donovan from Teagasc speaks about the Grassland Climate Adaptation Conference where one of the topics of conversation was that our temperature and the amount of rainfall we receive has increased in the last number of decades.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Marty Murphy from IFAC about Budget 2025 and what it will mean for farmers. With more money being given to most sectors it's predominantly good news but IFAC are concerned about the "active farmer" test and what it will mean for farmers in nursing homes who plan to pass land over to the next generation. Tim Ashmore Principal of Kildalton College chats about their upcoming open day for students which will include a demonstration of their bovine simulator which allows students to gain real world experience when studying. Brian Nicholson a sheep farmer from Co. Kilkenny and Aidan Maguire a beef farmer from Co. Meath chat about the awards they picked up at the FBD/Teagasc Enviornmental Sustainability Awards which were held in Portlaoise this week. Joe Burke from Bord Bia chats about upcoming changes to the Quality Assurance Scheme. He speaks about how the scheme needs to be updated to keep pace with the everchanging global food market and the desires of consumers.
On the programme this week Sarah McIntosh from the Irish Farmers Journal chats to MJ about the announcement at last weeks National Ploughing Championships that two new vet schools are to be opened in Ireland which will add 80 vet places for third level students. Mike Brady from the Brady Group chats about how farmers need to be more cognisant of their carbon footprint and how policy needs to change to pay farmers properly to ensure that environmental schemes with the aim of lowering GHGs do not lessen income for farmers. Alison Duncan from Fleming Agri Products, David Rice from David Rice Engineering, Teres Malanaphy from M TEC and Desmond Savage from Moonsyst speak about their respective agri businesses live from the National Ploughing Championships.
Countrylife is brought to you live from the National Ploughing Championships this week in Ratheniska Co. Laois this week where Minister Charlie McConalogue joins MJ to chat about the Vet Medicines Regulations where the Minister defends the change in legislation even though smaller merchants may well be forced to close as a result of the loss of dosing products from their shelves. Fertiliser usage on farms, anaerobic digestion and payments for rearing dairy calves are other topics up for discussion.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Adam Woods from the Irish Farmers Journal about the cattle trade and how live exports are really underpinning the current strong market demand. Martin O Reilly from Co. Laois chats about his recent achievements at the FBD Young Farmer Awards for dairying and biodiversity. Áine Regan from Teagasc speaks about new research where Teagasc are looking for farmers to take part in a survey on animal health. Oliver Guirke from the Fore Distillery in Co. Westmeath speaks about his business and the distilling process for Poitín where he uses grain as opposed to potatoes.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Teresa Roche from the Family Farm Committe where they are lobbying for a retirement scheme to encourage next generation transfer in agriculture. Declan Hanrahan Livestock Chair from the IFA chats about the beef trade and how details are needed on the in person SCEP training courses that were announced earlier this year by the Minister for Agriculture. Fiona O Malley from Turn2Me chats about mental health and how having a dog in your life can really help people who are finding things difficult. Sarah McIntosh from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about the first round Leaving Cert offers which have just been issued. Sarah chats about what to do if you have received your offer and what to do if things have not gone to plan.
Country Life with MJ Clery every Wednesday from 7pm on Midlands 103. Keep up with everything agriculture and beyond.
Country Life with MJ Clery every Wednesday from 7pm on Midlands 103. Keep up with everything agriculture and beyond.
On the programme this week MJ chats to IFA Poultry Chair Nigel Sweetnam about how Lidl are selling German eggs on Irish supermarket shelves. This is because of the huge downward price pressure the supermarket has put on egg producers forcing many to leave the industry as a result of being paid such poor prices. Eoin Lowry head of Agri with Bank of Ireland chats about the bank's financial results for the first 6 months of this year which shows the financial institution making a pre tax profit of 1.1 billion euro. Siobhán Walsh from the Irish Farmers Journal chats about the new Bailing Assistance Payment which will now run alongside the recently reinstated Straw Incorporation Measure. John Connell author from Co. Longford chats about his recent publication "Twelve Sheep" and comments on a clip from North Tipperary sheep farmer Amy Jackson from Lacka Organic Lamb on resuscitating a new born lamb " a private moment of wonder" as John says, something which every farmer can associate with.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture Martin Heydon about the recently agreed Farmer's Charter where the farm bodies have negotiated that farmers need to be treated in a fair and transparent manner in all dealings with the Department of Agriculture. Paul Smith from Teagasc chats about Beef Quest which was launched last week where the mission of this project is to bring slaughter ages of cattle down across the country through the use of better farming practices. Gráinne McGrath from the Laois Offaly Educational Training Board chats about the various training courses which they offer including AI, hoof pairing and scanning, they are also looking for farming families to come on board for a new project with the aim of helping people with next generation planning. Mervyn Auchmuty chats about an upcoming farm event being ran by BASE Ireland, BASE stands for Biodiversity, Agriculture, Soil and Environment and this event sees a huge focus on the importance of soil quality.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Willy Shaw the recently elected Sheep Chairperson from the ICSA who's members are up in arms as a result of continued cuts in sheep prices by factories. Elaine Houlihan President of Macra chats about the organisation's National Lobbying Day which sees members descend on Leinster House to ensure politicians are aware of the needs of young rural dwellers. Liam Kelly from Teagasc gives the information on an upcoming forestry event taking place in Oakpark in Carlow which includes over a dozen stands and is must see for both current and potential forestry owners. Henry Burns the recently elected Chairperson of Laois IFA chats about an upcoming farm walk where he hopes there will be a big turnout as he feels social gatherings are hugely important during this very tough time for farmers when growth rates and the weather are both proving difficult.
Info from the ICSA about silage yields and farmers budgets, an update on the European Nature Restoration Law and the new laws on quad bikes/ATVs, Teagasc's upcoming beef event and more
On the programme this week MJ chats to Cathal Nolan from Ireland's Weather Channel about the wettest spring in memory and what the forecast has in store for us going forward. Pearse Kelly speaks about a Teagasc helpline which has been established in order to help farmers who are in need of support during these tough times. Belinda Gyves from People's First Credit Union in Portlaoise and Joe Healy former IFA President speak about the Cultivate Loan package which is offered to farmers by Credit Unions across the country. James Donnellan from the Irish Aubrac Society chats about an upcoming bull sale which will see interest from both suckler and dairy farmers for the dual purpose breed. Martina Neville from the Tullamore Show joins MJ in studio to speak about the upcoming launch of the show which includes a young handlers event aimed at children of all ages who have an interest in showing cattle.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Joe Patton from Teagasc about the poor growth rates and weather conditions which are putting farmers to the pin of their collars with huge pressure on fodder and slurry storage. Robert Birney from FRS chats about their new fencing post which has recently launched, the Dura 2 post. FRS had to look to the market for a new preservative on posts as the use of creosote was banned last year. Marty Murphy from IFAC accountants speaks about how renewable energy companies are now looking for land from farmers for battery storage as well as solar panels. Eugene Larkin from Glen Field Rapeseed Oil chats about the business based in Co. Offaly where everything from planting, harvesting, pressing, bottling and delivery are handled by the family members.
Andrew Bergin tillage farmer from Co. Kildare chats to MJ about the huge global surge in the price of cocoa, the base ingredient in chocolate where unfortunately primary producers mainly in equatorial Africa are not seeing an increase in their margins. Michael Moroney from the FCI chats about their annual contractor price list which gives a guide price on all contractors fees for 2024. Senator Paul Daly from Co. Westmeath speaks about how TAMS funding needs to be increased urgently as the costings are hugely outdated and not in line with current prices. Darren Carty from the Irish Farmers Journal chats about the livestock trade and how the new dairy calf scheme has excluded beef farmers. This latest move shows a real lack of foresight from Department of Agriculture as all calf rearers should receive this payment.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Sean McNamara from the ICSA who believes that spring lamb will break the €10/kg threshold for the first time in Irish farming history. Mike Brady well known ag consultant chats about his recent trip to Australia where he gained first hand experience about their dairy model where food production is paramount and red tape is minimal. John Curran from the IFA gives an update on the ACRES planting deadline and Steven Meyen from Teagasc chats about what tree to chose when planting on your land. Janine Kennedy from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about a traditional staple from the Irish breakfast table, our famous black pudding. Janine explores how a handful of producers are still using real blood as opposed to powder form which is the traditional method of production.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Sophie Bell who documents her farming life on her social media channels. Sophie has seen a huge surge in her popularity recently with a video of her changing a puncture on the back wheel of a tractor having reached 10 million views. Sophie is also involved in a tractor driving course organised in conjunction with FRS aimed specifically for women. Aidan Brennan from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about the challenges the weather is posing for dairy farming at the moment and also chats about the current calf trade where the weight of the calf is having a huge bearing on price. Michael Martyn an Agri Advisor based in Co. Westmeath chats about the work done over the past number of years to ensure the survival of the Grey Partridge with Lough Boora in Co. Offaly being one of the main habitats for the rare bird in the country. Laois man Declan Hanrahan from the IFA chats about the recent changes made to the ICBF ratings and how suckler farmers wont be impacted if 4 and 5 star animals lost stars in the last round of assessments, these animals will still satisfy the criteria under SCEP.
On the show this week MJ chats to John Murphy Enviornment Chair from the IFA on the recent changes pertaining to the nitrates rules in Ireland. One of these being that movement of slurry from farm to farm will now have to be reported within a timeframe of a few days which will cause more stress for farmers with the now unending level of paperwork they have to contend with. Michael Hennessy from Teagasc speaks about their Crop Report platform which helps farmers make better decisions with their tillage crops. Paul O Brennan farms alpacas in Co. Westmeath and he is involved in the National Alpaca Show taking place in Mullingar which will see competitors come from across the UK and Ireland. Sarah McIntosh from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about the huge number of Irish people moving to Australia and how this is having a serious impact for companies looking for workers especially those in the agri sphere.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Pat Davitt from IPAV about their annual land survey which documents the prices paid for farmland throughout the country. Prices have seen a continued upward trajectory over the past three years with average land price now in excess of €12,500 per acre. John Kealy is Head of Grain with Tirlán and he chats about the company's recent grain awards which saw the Deering family from Emo in Co. Laois take the top prize. Padráig Egan from Doon in Co. Offaly is a member of SEEFA the organisation established to give forestry owners a united voice. He speaks about how forestry policy is having a hugely detrimental effect on the industry and how government targets are a huge distance behind where they are aiming as a result of farmers being precluded from planting in peat type soils which is a completely nonsensical approach. Adam Woods chats about the cattle trade and how live exports will be a cornerstone of the trade this year with several companies having gained contracts abroad and looking to fill orders in the coming months.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Minister of State Martin Heydon about one of the areas of his portfolio that of farm safety. With a huge proportion of accidents occurring at this time of the year with cows after calving, the Minister stresses the importance of thinking before acting when entering a calving pen with a freshly calved cow. Kildalton College have been educating young farmers for over 50 years and with an upcoming open day scheduled, Brian Clancy from the college chats about the courses on offer. Lorcan Roche Kelly from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about the recently announced results of Kerry PLC and also how relying on merchant credit can be a very costly decision for farmers. Martin Coughlan from the Farming Independent chats about the livestock trade with a particular focus on the appetite for lighter store cattle in marts at the moment.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Offaly man John Cleary the newly appointed Beef Chair of the ICSA. John chats about his finishing enterprise where he farms in partnership with his brother and how a recent delay in receiving a new cheque book highlighted to him the importance of this method of payment in rural Ireland. Shay Phelan from Teagasc chats about an upcoming Spring Tillage Seminar in Tullamore where the metrics and financials of crops such as fodder beet and maize will be discussed. Calving cameras are the most valuable piece of equipment on farms at this time of the year, Gerry Stronge from Ballinasloe has been in the camera business for years. He speaks about the range of cameras which he sells and how some of his cameras do not need an internet connection to operate. Sean McGloin from the National Organic Training Skillnet chats from Germany where he is attending the largest organic trade show in Europe.
On the programme this week the land market is top of the agenda. Joe Coogan Auctioneer chats about a block of land in Co. Laois leased for €560 per acre recently which shows real strength in the market considering how tough 2023 was financially. The topic of the vacant/derelict housing grants and how they are creating a lot more interest in rural dwellings is also spoken about. Karol Duigenan from the FTMTA chats about their upcoming conference entitlted "Navigating the Machinery Landscape" taking place in Portlaoise. With the tillage sector after taking a hard hit in 2023 it has seen a big knock on effect in machinery/tractor sales and this is one of the main areas of focus at the event. Willie Dunne from slurrybags.ie which is an Offaly based company chats about how recent changes to the reclamation of VAT by non registered farmers is having an adverse effect on his business. The changes are short sighted and show a lack of joined up thinking by stopping farmers from spending on hugely important areas such as slurry storage. Phelim O Neill from the Irish Farmers Journal chats about ongoing farmer protests throughout Europe and while they are not linked, unrest among farmers is at an all time high on the continent.
With 1 in 3 farmers concerned that they will not have adequate cash flow to pay bills within the next 6 months, MJ chats to Philip O Connor from IFAC about this finding from their recent Irish Farm Report. It's a worrying statistic and shows that the high input prices and poor weather from 2023 is having a big knock on effect in 2024. It has been reported that Agricultural Consultants in Ireland are on the verge of striking as a result of increased workloads and deadlines, Noel Feeny from the Agricultural Consultants Association gives the background on this and answers the question as to whether or not consultants are about to down tools. Michael Hennessy from Teagasc gives the details about the National Tillage Conference which takes place next week. One area of huge interest is the potential synergies between the dairy and tillage sector and this will be discussed on the day. With Minister McConalogue recently announcing a draft ten point plan on improving the quality of dairy beef calves, Denis Drennan from the ICMSA chats about his disappointment as dairy farmers were not consulted on this plan from the outset.
With the news of Irish beef allowed entry back to China on the day of Li Qiang's visit to these shores, Pat O Toole from the Irish Farmers Journal chats to MJ about the significance of this development for Irish agriculture. A group of Laois farmers wish to get Mountrath mart open again after its closure some time age, Ken Holmes chats about an upcoming information evening to get cattle back in the ring in the midlands venue. Michael Silke from the Save Our Shannon Organisation speaks about the disquiet amongst callow farmers as a result of payments under the Shannon Callow Scheme where farmers are only receiving a portion of what they are due. The Teagasc National Sheep Conference takes place in Athlone this year. Damian Costello and Tim Keady from Teagasc chat about the event and how nutrition pre lambing is hugely important with a special emphasis on the protein content of concentrate being fed to ewes. With farmers waiting for the entire of 2023 on TAMS updates, finally these came before Christmas. With a little over 20% of farmers being approved, John Curran from the IFA chats about what farmers need to do now if they have not yet received approval.
Dr. Steve Collins from Derry Duff Farm chats to MJ about how his humanitarian work in famine stricken countries in Africa have led him to a secluded farm in West Cork. On his farm Steve is growing aronia berries and chats not only about the health benefits but also the fine profit margins that are to be had for people growing these plants. Alan Dillon from Teagasc chats about upcoming Dairy Beef 500 calf webinars where topics such as health and sourcing good quality animals will be discussed. Grace Cassells, Lara Flood and Kiera Hopkins from Ballymahon Vocational School speak about the BT Young Scientist Competition and their project on the benefits of electronic cow collars. With our food and beverage exports topping 16 billion euro for a second year in a row John Tobin from Bord Bia chats about this remarkable achievement for Irish agriculture.
It's the first programme of 2024 and on Countrylife this week MJ chats to the new man in charge of the ICMSA. Kilkenny native Denis Drennan is after taking the reins of the diary farming organisation and he chats about his own farm and the huge challenges facing dairy farmers namely labour and nitrates. Staying on the topic of dairy farming the annual Positive Farmers Conference takes place next week in Cork. One of the organisers Gillian O Sullivan chats about the event and her own family farm where herself and her husband left full time roles as small animals vets to pursue a career in dairy farming. Laois man Declan Hanrahan has just been elected the National Beef Chair of the IFA and he speaks about his role and how EU supports are hugely important for this low income sector. Old Moore's Almanac is 260 years old in 2024 and was originally the brain child of an Offaly man. The almanac has sales of over 60,000 copies per annum and its editor Nicole Buckler chats about it's history and some of the predictions it makes for 2024.
The last show of 2023 sees MJ chat to Darren Carty from the Irish Farmers Journal about what payments are still outstanding for farmers as the year comes to a close. Laois man Eoin Lowry, Head of Agri with Bank of Ireland chats about their new Enviroflex loan which is currently being offered to Kerry milk suppliers. It sees farmers receive a lower interest rate loan if they farm in a more sustainable manner. With interest rates up to 2% less than standard offerings it is certainly something that is worth considering. Eoin also gives his views on interest rates for the coming year and where he expects them to be. PJ Lynam from the Tullamore Tractor Run pops into studio to chat about the annual fundraising event.
On the programme this week the newly elected President of the IFA joins MJ for chat. Francie Gorman from Co. Laois takes up his role next month - he outlines what he feels are the biggest issues currently facing Irish agriculture. A recent change with the interpretation of the rules relating to VAT and unregistered farmers has had a huge impact on farms throughout the country. The Revenue are now refusing to refund VAT on items such as meal bins, automatic calf feeders and bulk milk tanks. Martin Meyrick from the Irish Farmers Journal talks about these changes and how it will impact on farm investment hugely going forward. Martin Kennedy from agridirect.ie speaks about what to buy the farmer in your life this year as a stocking filler. From fur lined wellies, head torches and simple electric fence testers there are lots of beneficial and practical presents on offer. Declan McEvoy from IFAC chats about a new app that the accountancy group are rolling out among their clients which will make the end of year accounting process more straight forward for all involved.
On the programme this week the subject of ACRES payments is the hot topic of conversation. MJ chats to Hugh Farrell from the ICSA on what percentage of farmers will be receiving their payments before Christmas and what the reason is for the delay. Knackeries around the country are on strike and TJ Maher from the IFA speaks about what farmers can do with fallen animals and how the Department of Agriculture need to act immediately . Aidan Brennan from the Irish Farmers Journal chats about nitrates and what paperwork farmers need to do if they have exported slurry earlier in the year. Martin O' Sullivan from the Agricultural Consultants Association chats about the 2024 ACA Handbook and how martial breakdown is one of the big issues he faces in his own consultancy business now. Martin Coughlan from the Farming Independent gives a roundup on the cattle and sheep trade with prices increasing slightly as the year comes to a close.
On this weeks programme the fact that farm incomes are set to rebound in 2024 takes centre stage. MJ chats to Teagasc economist Trevor Donnellan about their recent economic report for agriculture. 2023 has seen farm incomes fall in most sectors with dairy seeing a huge drop in income of 60% to bring the average dairy farm income to €59,000 for the year. Adam Woods from the Irish Farmers Journal chats about a Belgian Blue heifer that made €23,500 in Carrick on Shannon this week, suckler unrest at the changing of the genomic indexes and how PGI status for our grass fed beef while beneficial is a long term play. Offaly man Jack Pilkington joins the show from New Zealand where he is on a fact finding mission for his company Agri Data Analytics Ireland Limited. Their area is that of measuring methane emissions from cattle and using this data to see what the best course of action is to minimise these going forward. With a cold snap of weather on the way there is also advice on what to do to prepare for freezing conditions on your farm.
This week sees the introduction of new rules for quad bike users. If you fall into this category it is now a legal requirement to wear a helmet and undertake a training course. MJ chats to Pat Griffin from the Health and Safety Authority about these new rules. Longhorn Beef is something of an unknown in Ireland. Ed Cooper from the Buitelaar Group chats about how the UK based company want farmers to contract rear calves through to beef for them in their production system. With payments per kg of liveweight gain it is an interesting proposition for farmers who don't want the capital outlay of purchasing livestock but still want to actively farm. The Teagasc National Dairy Conference takes place next week and James Dunne gives a run down of what's on offer including a presentation on milking 10 times over a 7 day period. Dr. Doug McMillan from Green Restoration Ireland chats about a project just outside Shinrone in Co. Offaly where the water table has been raised on peatland. A lot of farmers are sceptical about this new departure and Doug aims to allay these fears by explaining that it is internal land only that is affected and how these projects are completely voluntary.
On the programme this week the National Teagasc Beef Conference which takes place next week in Ballinasloe Co. Galway takes centre stage. Bernard Doorley from Teagasc in Co. Offaly gives an overview of what to expect on the day and outlines the six papers that will be discussed by the speakers from IBR prevalence in our herd to the international beef markets going forward. Dr. Paul Crossan speaks specifically about his presentation which is the upcoming changes to the Beef Eurostar Index which some suckler famers are not happy with as they see a move away from continental cows. Minister Martin Heydon recently returned from a trade mission to the Far East where he visited Malayasia and the Philippines. With Ireland exporting over 90% of the food it produces and with the UK creating its own trade deals outside of Europe these markets are more important than ever for Irish farmers. An ICSA event taking place this week sees a host of speakers including Richard Markham from Co. Offaly . Richard operates a tree and hedge care business. He speaks about the practice of hedge laying, the best time to sow hedging and the maintenance required thereafter.
With the Celtic festival of Samhain just around the corner MJ chats to Clodagh Doyle from Countrylife Museum in Co. Mayo about how our customs today are based on the practices of our ancestors. Clodagh speaks about practices such as dressing up to ward off spirits and the fact that what you find in a Bairín Breac has more signifigance than you may think! Ewen Mullins from Teagasc speaks about the huge potential there is in plant protein for Irish farmers with a massive demand from the human nutrition market. Deirdre Murtagh from Farmaphobia in Co. Meath speaks about the now enormous Halloween event which started on their family farm some 20 years ago. The current event sees over 200 people employed to scare patrons over the month of October. Stephen Robb from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about a 97 acre solar farm that has just been given permission in Co. Offaly. This is the third such farm to be given permission in Co. Offaly in recent times.
On the programme this week the Blás na hÉireann awards are one of the man topics of conversation. Fallon Moore from Blás joins MJ to chat about the annual awards which are now running for 16 years. Fallon chats about the winners from the Midlands and how home cooking and food origin are more and more important for consumers. A recent gold medal winner at the Blás awards were Greene's Free Range Eggs from Co. Westmeath. Kenneth Greene chats about their business and the logistics of animal husbandry with over 5,000 hens. Margaret Farrell from Teagasc speaks about the newly deployed signpost advisors who will visit your farm and help you to farm in a more environmentally friendly way. The aim is to ensure profitability while also farming more sustainably. This service is free and available to all farmers. Teresa Roche from the IFA speaks about the need for vigilance when using lime on the farm and also chats about her on farm business producing Kylemore Farmhouse Cheese.
On the programme this week the budget takes centre stage as MJ chats to Marty Murphy from IFAC accountants on the different measures affecting farmers. With sheep payments rising to €20 per ewe and €200 being guaranteed for suckler cows, the government is targeting these low income sectors. A new one hectare forestry scheme launched last week sees payments front loaded for the first ten years. With over €20,000 on offer this scheme is attracting huge interest and Liam Kelly from Teagasc chats about it. The Shorthorn Marketing Company are a producer group that offers a bonus for shorthorn beef breeds. Laois man Peter Luttrell speaks about an upcoming shorthorn sale in Roscrea Mart and how the breed are attracting interest especially from part time farmers due to ease of calving and docility. Niall McCormack from the IFA chats about a recent boost for the horticulture sector with over 2 million of funding for the sector however the exclusion of strawberry and white mushroom growers is causing unrest. A young boy from Kinnity Co. Offaly lost his leg in a tragic farm accident earlier in the year and Dolores Flaherty speaks about an upcoming event where both volunteers and ideas are wanted for the "Doing it for Dennedy" campaign to raise money for Micheal Dennedy. Timber Croc is a well known product which aids the cutting of timber with a chainsaw. Des Geraghty speaks about the product which is both labour saving and safe. It's a real success story for an Irish business with products now being shipped to Europe and the USA.
Deer take centre stage this week on the programme as MJ chats to Ger O Brien from the Irish Wild Deer Society on recent proposals that would see licensed hunters being paid to shoot female deer at a certain time of the year. Deer numbers are growing year on year and part of the problem is the huge amount of money that forestry owners including Coillte are charging hunters to shoot on their lands. Adam Woods from the Irish Farmers Journal gives all the details on the upcoming deadlines for SCEP and the NBWS. With National Potato Day just around the corner, Mike Neary from Bord Bia chats about the most widely eaten vegetable in the country featuring on 98% of dinner tables over the course of a given year. Martin Coughlan from the Farming Independent chats about the beef and sheep trade. He speaks about how the appetite for sheep farming is weaning and how the sector is in real trouble with a shortage of younger farmers showing interest. Michael McEvoy from the Laois Farm Forestry Producers Group speaks about a new report on Ash Dieback and how affected farmers need real and meaningful compensation immediately in order to instil confidence into the forestry sector.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Co. Laois farmer and cancer survivor Tom Cushen. Tom recently launched an awareness campaign for prostate cancer where he is encouraging famers to attend regular check ups to keep on top of their health. Westmeath man Stephen Fagan from Micron Agritech speaks about their system of real time testing for fluke and worms. The aim is to have one of their testing units in all vets' practices in the near future to reduce unnecessary anthelmintic use. Niall Reynolds from Soilworx speaks about their organic fertiliser which is made from chicken manure, the company feels there is a huge gap in the market for organic fertiliser given the launch of the National Fertiliser Database. The Health and Safety Authority have launched their annual drive to be vigilant when working at heights. Martina Gormely from the HSA speaks about this and also when choosing someone to help with a particular job on the farm that they are capable of whatever the task is. Peader Heffernan from Ballyboy Co. Offaly chats about their upcoming fundraising day which includes tractor pulling and testing the horsepower of tractors, all in aid of local charities. Tailjack is an invention to aid the training of dairy heifers in the parlour, it was conceived by a dairy farmer for a dairy farming problem, Kieran O Hara speaks about the design and the interest it has received to date.
The National Ploughing Championships take centre stage this week. MJ broadcasts live from Ratheniska Co. Laois where is he joined by Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue. Minister McConalogue states that the reduction in the Nitrate Derogation is here to stay while also defending the change of rules in relation to slurry movement from farm to farm. The IFA presidential candidates Francie Gorman from Co. Laois and Martin Stapleton from Co. Limerick speak about why they both feel best placed to be the next head of the organisation. Martin Walsh from Major Engineering gives an insight into a hugely successful Irish agri business which started off in Mayo in 1976. Today employing over 100 people and exporting machinery all over the world. Tom Moore from Midland Veterinary in Portarlington chats about the business which operates both in store and online. He speaks about how the best part of his job is helping farmers on a daily basis.
Nitrates take centre stage this week with news that the derogation is falling from 250kg to 220 kg from the 1 Jan 2024. Aidan Brennan from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about what this will mean for farmers on the ground and how it will affect their profitability. Bobby Miller from Stradbally speaks about the Irish Grain Growers Association's involvement in the Food Vison Tillage Group where they are lobbying for changes in the Tillage Incentive Scheme. Leonard Green from tonictreat.com speaks about a family and dog friendly event taking place in Moate while Marianne Mulhall from Teagasc speaks about an upcoming organic farm walk in Co. Kilkenny. Farm Fayre is a new online selling platform for livestock. Kevin O Connor chats about what separates this platform from the other platforms including delivery, weighing and a highest bidder option when purchasing livestock.
The Suckler Beef Welfare Scheme is discussed on the programme this week as MJ speaks with Hugh Farrell from the ICSA. Farmers are unhappy with the IBR requirement which will require a blood sample to be taken from animals to satisfy a term of the scheme. Farmers are still waiting on an update on TAMS applications from earlier this year. A Teagasc event this week in Kildalton College in Co. Kilkenny promises to shed some light on TAMS as well as a number of other areas topical in agriculture. Forestry, Solar and Organics will also be spoken about on the day. Francie Gorman from Co. Laois officially launches his IFA presidential bid this week and he speaks about the biggest challenges facing Irish agriculture at the moment. The Clonaslee Show takes place this week and Pat Carroll speaks about the huge commmunity effort that goes into organising something like this. A new category sees a prize fund of €1500 on offer for the Best Heifer or Bullock of any age which has generated huge interest both locally and further afield. The North East Texel Club has a sale on this week in Carnaross Mart. David Craig speaks about what's on offer and how the texel breed originally made its way to these shores.
On the show this week the National Fertiliser Database is the on the agenda. With the deadline looming farmers will have to register online or else they will not be in a position to buy fertiliser from the start of September. Jim Moyles local advisor from Co. Offaly gives all the information in relation to this new requirement. The topic of winter milk is covered when James Dunne from Teagasc speaks in advance of a winter milk open day taking place in Johnstown Castle. The question as to whether this cohort of farmers are actually being paid properly for working all year round is examined. Ballyboy is a small village in Co. Offaly and its residents are holding a community event in a little over a month. They are encouraging small businesses from all over the midlands to get in touch to showcase their products and services at the event. Niall Grennan from John Grennan and Sons speaks about the benefits for small businesses to attend an event such as this. The National Genomics Scheme has been rolled out for dairy farmers and now its the turn of beef famers. Will this initiative help to increase the genetic merit of our national herd? Mark Waters from the ICBF joins to chat about the programme and an upcoming information webinar.
Wonky vegetables, weather and how a new farming apprenticeships could bring life back into the industry are also on the menu for this week's Country Life as Sinead Hubble takes the hot seat.
The Tullamore Show takes centre stage this week on the programme. MJ chats to chairman Joe Molloy and the man in charge of pedigree livestock Kalem McNamara about the enormity of the event. Lovol Tractors are launching at the show. They are a new tractor brand in Ireland and aim to offer better value to the farming community with 75 hp tractors starting at €33,000 plus VAT. Paul Mulcahy speaks about why they can offer better value than most while still maintaining a quality product. Five farmers are going to win sustainability awards at the show and these will be presented in the Sustainability Village to farmers who have made a concerted effort to farm in a more enviornmentally conscious manner. Liam Kelly from Teagasc speaks about the Forestry and Energy Village where farmers can learn more about the new forestry programme and renewable energy options for their farms. Donal Whelton from AIB speaks about how officials from the bank will be on site to inform farmers about their current loan products. Donal also gives his view on interest rates and whether we have levelled out or more hikes are still to come.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Martin Coughlan from the Farming Independent about how the quality of cattle being slaughtered has seen a serious decline over the last 10 years. Amy Forde from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about the new fertiliser database and the obligations on farmers under these new rules. Jason Fleming the IFA Forestry Chair is not happy about the delay with the new forestry scheme and the limited funding which has just been announced is not enough he feels. Noel Feeny President of the Ag Consultants talks about the new suckler cow scheme, ACRES and an upcoming knowledge transfer group worth 750 euro to farmers. With the start of August upon us, Clodagh Doyle from Countrylife Museum in Co. Mayo shares an insight into the ancient festival of Lughnasa and its significance in relation to farming today.
On this weeks programme MJ looks at the change in the recent Nature Restoration Law which has seen bog rewetting removed. Westmeath man Noel Bardon from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about the connotations this will have for Irish farmers. The question as to whether we will see rewetting come in a different form is something that Noel examines.
Ag colleges around Ireland have recently invested in cow simulators where each student will now be able to calve down a cow using a scale model of the animal. The idea is to increase awareness around animal safety and with over 2250 non fatal animal related accidents on farms last year, it's a hugely positive step. Jon Parry principal of Gurteen Agricultural College speaks about this excellent new initiative.
Brendan Henegan coaches entrepreneurs and established small busineeses. He speaks to MJ about working with agri company JFC and how their first product was essentially some buckets welded together to make calf feeding easier and how it has grown to a muti million euro company.
Peter Ging from Co. Laois speaks about the upcoming Ossory show.
On this weeks programme MJ covers the recent RTÉ programme Dairy’s Dirty Secret which looked at calf handling practices both in Ireland and on the continent. Pat McCormack from the ICMSA who featured on the programme speaks about how he felt the dairy industry was poorly portrayed. The annual Energy and Farm Diversification Show takes place on July 20th 2023 and Barry Caslin from Teagasc speaks about the event. Barry touches on the concept of farmers being paid to sequester carbon and much more. Ollie Ryan from Midland Veterinary speaks about the new changes coming into effect which will see farmers needing a prescription from their vet to purchase dosing products from their local merchant. Mary Thea Brosnan chats about her company Kerry Kefir where local milk is used to produce a product with great gut health benefits. Mary Thea speaks about the origins of Kefir which was first produced by shepherds in the Caucasus Mountains over 2000 years ago.
On this weeks programme MJ chats to Eddie Burgess from Teagasc about the EPA report on water quality. While nothing has been set in stone yet it seems that our Nitrate Derogation will fall from 250kg to 220kg next year. This drop will have a huge impact on the viability of family farms and will have little or no impact on water quality. It's another area where agriculture is been used as the whipping boy for climate change. Pat O Toole from the Irish Farmers Journal recently visited the USA with a group of farmers from Ireland and he speaks about meeting the most powerful person in global agriculture US Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. Mervyn Auchmuty chats about the BASE farming group. BASE stands for Biodiversity Agriculture Soil and Environment and their concepts include min till and mob grazing. Paddy Donnoly speaks about the upcoming Mullingar Show.
This week we're going to Vietnam via Blue Ball.
Find out about remote and rural Vietnam through the eyes of an Offaly farmer.
Eveline Gill comes from a farming family and will be well known for organic farming in the region today.
As we can all see and experience, it's unreal weather at the moment.
There’s plenty of us working outside.
Are you on top of your sun screening?
You'll hear from the Cancer Prevention Manager of the Irish Cancer Society about some pretty shocking statistics in relation to skin cancer in this country.
Over half of Ireland's farmers have been victims of theft.
And that's just the ones who report it.
You’ll hear from the criminologists who have done the research behind that particular stat.
We also get the latest on the Athlone Agri Show for 2023.
On the show this week MJ chats to Pat McCormack President of the ICMSA on the news story this week that up to 200,000 dairy cows will have to be culled to meet Ireland's emission reduction targets. Pat also speaks about World Milk Day which takes places on 1 June and how Ireland as a nation has one of the finest grass based dairy systems in the world. Jason Stanley organic farmer from Co. Laois speaks about his tillage and sheep enterprise and how crop rotation is key to his farming system. He speaks about how the sheep sector is struggling and the fact that his organic lamb is often sold conventionally as the price differential is so minimal at times. Professor Michael Griffin from University of Limerick speaks about the annual Longford Westmeath Oliver Goldsmith festival. The theme of this years festival is that of emigration and migration from the late 1700's to today. Ross Brady from Tirlán speaks about their Beef 2020 club and how it is gone from strength to strength since its inception in 2019. With beef factories currently playing havoc with beef prices, this scheme sees up to 60c per kg being paid to farmers and this additional margin and certainty of an outlet for finished animals is what is attracting beef finishers into the scheme.
On Country Life this week, MJ chats to Lorraine Allen from Brand Innovation Ireland about launching and scaling agri and rural businesses. Lorraine speaks about the importance of branding and how a customer centred approach will see start-ups flourish. Pat O Toole from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about rewetting of farmland and how Minister McConalogue has stated that Ireland's rewetting targets up to 2050 can be achieved on state lands. However, the question as to how this will affect neighbouring lands has yet to be answered by the government. Joanne Bowers speaks about how the Irish Shorthorn Association are running a marketing campaign called "Breed a Roan" and that they are giving away five free AI straws to farmers across the country as part of the strategy. Westmeath based shorthorn breeder Amelda Leonard speaks about her family's journey with shorthorn cattle and how their customers span both the dairy and beef industries. Colin Duffy from Ballinahown Co. Westmeath speaks about an Irish Angus Cattle Society Youth Development event this weekend in Tullamore where young handlers will be educated in all areas of showing cattle.
This week silage cutting season features heavily on the programme. Michael Moroney from the Association of Farm and Foresty Contractors in Ireland speaks about contracting costs and how the reduction in diesel prices this season won't see a knock on effect with contracting charges. Stuart Anthony from BPI Agriculture speaks about their products Baletite and Silotite. Baletite being the white plastic that has replaced net on bales and how it is significantly reducing silage waste. Jim Dockery from FRS speaks about farm safety during silage season and how preparation is the key to avoid accidents. Liam Kelly from Teagasc Mullingar speaks about the delay in implementing the Forestry Programme 2023 to 2027 and an upcoming timber networking event. Laois man Kieran McEvoy Grain Chairman of the IFA speaks about the challenging spring on tillage farms and how the newly established Tillage Vison Group aims to increase tillage to 1 million acres by 2030.
On the programme this week MJ chats to the newly appointed Fine Gael spokesperson on Agriculture, Cork based Senator Tim O Donovan. Tim is a dairy farmer and he shares his views on how he feels about the upcoming EPA report on water quality and the impact this will have on our nitrates derogation. Tim feels that this is one of the biggest challenges farmers have faced in years. Alice Doyle speaks about how the IFA are looking to have pre-nuptial agreements recognised in Ireland. Alice feels that the landscape has changed completely, people are getting married older with significant individual assets to their names and there needs to be a procedure in place where these assets can be agreed upon prior to marriage. Christy Watson from the Irish Grassland Association speaks about the history of the organisation since it's inception in 1946 and an upcoming farm walk in Clonbullogue, Co. Offaly. The Department of Agriculture has just announced a nationwide genomics test for all stock from 2024 and Jimmy Cosgrave from the ICSA illustrates how understanding the genetic make up of dairy beef cattle will be a gamechanger for beef farmers into the future. This is something that is badly needed and it is an extremely positive step for the future of beef farming.
On the programme this week MJ chats to former presenter of Countrywide on RTÉ Radio 1 Damian O Reilly. Damian departed his role after 25 years with RTÉ and recently took up a position with ICOS in Brussels. ICOS is the body which represents co - ops and Damian and MJ chat about the 50th anniversary of the opening of their Brussels office. Sam Moody former Head Chef in Ballyfin Demense Co. Laois is on the cusp of opening a new restaurant in Abbeyleix. Bramleys is a restaurant which aims to use as much local and seasonal produce as possible. Sam speaks about the quality produce all around the Midlands and how he feels Irish lamb is the best in the world. Niall McCormack the IFA Fruit and Veg Chairman is a soft fruit grower producing 60 tonnes of strawberries annually. Niall speaks about the urgent need for the office of the Food Regulator to be established to ensure transparency in the horticulture sector. This is something that Minister McConalogue promised would occur during his tenure and both farmers and consumers will benefit hugely from it's existence. Rev for Trev is a Tractor Run taking place in Mountrath on Sunday 14 May to highlight mental health awareness. Arthur Hanley joins MJ to chat about Trevor Wallace to whom the day is dedicated. Trevor, a machinery enthusiast from Mountrath was lost to suicide two years ago.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Lakelands CEO Colin Kelly. Colin who is a Co. Offaly native took the position in January of this year. He speaks about the latest financial results for the Co - Op which shows a turnover of 1.9 billion euro, the largest in its history. Colin speaks about the outlook for the global dairy market this year and how he feels it's a year to consolidate as opposed to spend. Paul O' Brien from the IFA speaks about the environmental challenges facing farmers and how 420,000 hectares of land is to be rewetted by 2050. Paul asks the question as to how profitable agriculture can run alongside this EU legislation? Michael Flanagan from Co. Westmeath speaks about the upcoming Hall of Fame Awards recognising people who have made a significant contribution of agri rural life over their careers. Pat O' Toole from the Irish Farmers Journal joins MJ to speak about the remarkable shift in the Netherlands which has seen huge support for the BBB party, the farmer citizen movement which is protesting against the government's environmental policies. The question as to whether the same could happen in Ireland is something that is coming to the fore.
On the programme this week MJ chats to Arrabawn CEO Conor Ryan about the co-ops most recent financial figures which for the first time in its history showed a turnover of 500 million euro. A huge success for a completely farmer owned venture. Conor gives his views on how Arrabawn will meet with consumer demand and how they will maintain their current milk pool of 500 million litres given the tightening nitrate rules. He also gives a prediction on what direction milk prices are going this year. Elaine Houlihan, President Elect of Macra chats about the main issues facing young farmers today. Darren Carty from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about the newly launched Red Clover Silage and Multi Species Sward schemes which sees up to 300 euro per hectare available for farmers should they participate. Paul Dillon from calfpens.ie speaks about slurry bags which have just been included under TAMS funding. Paul compares and contrasts slurry bags and permastores and gives the pros and cons for each.
This week MJ chats to Joe Kelleher from Teagasc on the upcoming webinar regarding red clover silage. With little nitrogen needed it is the go to crop for organic farmers but will organic farmers be in a position to maintain soil P and K levels with up to 3 crops being taken each year? Martin Coughlan from the Farming Independent chats about this weeks beef trade and how sheep farmers are undoubtedly worse off than this time last year. Mark Molloy from Rosemount Co. Westmeath is raffling 10 tonne of fertiliser to raise funds for his local GAA club and he speaks to MJ about the upcoming Lord of the Mount charity event. Aubrac bulls are in high demand scoring at the top of the Dairy Beef Index. Francis Donoghue from Johnstown Aubracs in Co. Westmeath speaks about how his herd has gone from strength to strength since he started in 2003.
It's National Cultivate Week and on the programme this week MJ speaks to Tom Allen from North Midlands Credit Union which manages almost half a billion euro worth of assets for its members. Tom speaks about the type of borrower the package is aimed at and it's attractive 6.55% interest rate. Noel Feeney President of the Agricultural Consultants Association speaks about how the message at their AGM last week in Portlaoise was that there is no salient interest in forestry from farmers given the level of red tape involved. Adam Woods from the Irish Farmers Journal gives an update on the beef trade and the plan to fly 1600 calves to the continent given the lairage problem in France at the moment. Ollie Ryan from Midland Veterinary gives an update on the legislation allowing merchants to sell dosing products. He hopes the Department of Agriculture will make the new rules workable for all parties going forward.
This week MJ chats to Brendan Golden from the IFA on the newly announced Suckler Cow Scheme (SCEP) which sees a payment of up to €150 per cow for the first 22 cows. Lorcan Roche Kelly from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about the global economy including the decline in milk prices and why we are unlikely to see any drop in fertiliser prices this spring. Keith Fahy from Teagasc recently carried out a very interesting experiment where he butchered a Hereford heifer for the deep freeze. The amount of actual edible meat on the ground was between 25% and 30% of the animal's live weight which made for interesting findings. Michael Guinan from the ICMSA calls on Minister Eamon Ryan to stop making excuses and meet the people of the Midlands to speak openly and transparently about bog rewetting.
This week MJ covers the much debated topic of banding in the dairy sector. Dairy farmers have recently received figures which will impact their businesses seriously. Aidan Brennan from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about this and what dairy farmers are doing to maintain numbers. George O Malley from Farmers Alliance speaks about the areas of agriculture this new organisation wishes to challenge.
With the new CAP payment model proving very confusing for farmers, Teagasc are holding an information night to give clarity to the area. Paul Fox from Teagasc speaks about this event and how farmers need to look into the new payment model well in advance of the closing date to decide what direction their farm is going to take.
Aberdeen Angus bulls are commanding great prices at the moment. The breed is really on a high and there is a concern about the supply of bulls among farmers. Sean Kilkenny from the Irish Angus Cattle Society chats on what farmers can expect when buying an Angus bull this year.
Claire O'Brien takes over Country Life for International Women's Day to discuss the import of grain from Ukraine, as well as what the squeeze on rented land means for us, and is it a good time to be a women in rural Ireland?
This week MJ chats to Aidan Connolly about his new book "The Future of Agriculture". Aidan speaks about how a growing use of technology will be a mainstay on farms in the future, how economies of scale will be more important than ever going forward and the real meaning of the word sustainabilty.
Declan Marren from the the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about the calf trade and how the use of sexed semen has seen an influx of dairy beef calves earlier than usual this year.
Kieron McEvoy IFA Tillage Chairman from Emo in Co. Laois speaks about how the land leasing market is leaving tillage farmers out in the cold.
And Hugh Farrell from the ICSA discusses increase in compensation levels for TB.
On the programme MJ covers the big story in Irish agriculture this week which is the launch of TAMS 3. After a long wait farmers can now apply for grant aid on a wide range of items. Michael Biggins from the IFA joins us to speak about the grant areas and ceiling of €90,000 for funding.The exclusion of dribble bars for slurry spreading is an area of contention for the IFA. Darren Carty from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about BISS, the new name for the basic payment which will see higher stocked farms losing out on up to 40% of their payments going forward.Pat Smith from Local Power speaks about TAMS 3 from a solar perspective and how an increased 60% grant is available for solar equipment.James Farrell from IFAC chats about the recent IFAC farm survey which shows that 75% of farmers cite a rise in input prices as their biggest concern for the year ahead.
This week MJ chats to Stephen Robb from the Irish Farmers Journal on the topic of Anaerobic Digestors. With the government after setting a totally unrealistic goal for AD plants in Ireland by 2030, Stephen speaks about how a government grant is the only thing that will get this industry moving.David Webster from Teagasc Mullingar speaks about water quality and how cutting herd sizes is not the answer but good farming practices are.Jonathan Murray speaks about the South Offaly Ploughing competition and how they are celebrating their 25th anniversary this year.Laois tillage farmer and recent winner at the Tirlán grain awards James Mulhall speaks about his HEAR Oilseed Rape crop which is achieving great results.
This week MJ chats to Mullingar based auctioneer David McDonnell about the recently launched IPAV Farming Report showing an average land price of over twelve thousand euro per acre, an increase of 39% since 2016.Dr. Marie Coggins speaks about a recent survey conducted by NUI Galway which showed glyphosate was detected in 26% of Irish people sampled. Its presence in such a significant proportion of the population including small children certainly raises concerns.Joe Kelleher from Teagasc speaks about upcoming webinars for organic farmers.John Fitzpatrick from Laois IFA speaks about their upcoming AGM and how he feels organic dairy farmers are getting a raw deal with current milk prices.
The programme this week falls on St. Brigid's day and MJ speaks to Clodagh Doyle from the Countrylife Museum in Co. Mayo about the feast day. Just who was Brigid? A mythical Celtic goddess or the more modern day Saint?Clodagh uncovers it all and speaks about the Celtic festival of Imbolg and how it is so important for agriculture as it is the season of new birth and new beginnings.Declan Marren from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about calves this spring and how rearing costs have escalated 44% in the last two years.Michael Moroney from the Association of Farm and Forestry Contractors in Ireland talks about oil prices for the upcoming spring and Ray Doyle from ICOS gives an insight into changes in TB rules at marts.
On this weeks programme MJ chats to Athlone based business Farmeye who have a range of services for farmers including soil sampling. Changes to the nitrates rules mean that soil sampling is now more important than ever and Brendan Allen from the company speaks about the services that they offer.International company Klassman Deilmann who have a facility in Co. Westmeath are trialing the use of willow as an additive to peat to use as a growing medium. The changes in the rules of harvesting peat sees this company having to transport peat from the Baltic states to use in Irish horticulture, non sensical from a carbon footprint perspective but something they are forced to do to survive.Aidan Brennan from the Irish Farmers Journal and Eamonn O Reilly from AIB speak about upcoming events in the Midlands on CAP and Nitrates. Eamonn gives his thoughts on interest rates for the coming year also.Martin Coughlan from the Farming Independent speaks about the cattle trade and how he feels sheep farmers are being left behind by the farm organisations.
MJ chats to Iseult Ward from Food Cloud on the fact that 40% of food is wasted worldwide and how this contributes to 8 - 10% of global greenhouse gases. Iseult talks about the steps we can take to minimise waste.Pat McCormack from the ICMSA speaks about how dairy farmers may look to exit CAP and farm without EU restrictions given the lessening value of entitlements as a result of rising inflation.Anne Finnegan from the Irish Farmers Journal chats about a recent PwC survey which found that over 40% of 4,400 CEOs surveyed felt that in 10 years their businesses won’t be economically viable given the changing global landscape.Ewen Mullins from Teagasc speaks about the annual Forestry Conference taking place on 25th January 2023. The conference will focus on among other areas, the 50% reduction in pesticide use which tillage farmers need to adhere to by 2030 under the Farm to Fork strategy.
On this weeks programme MJ chats to Minister of State Martin Heydon on the reopening of the Chinese market for Irish beef. Claire McCormack from Co. Westmeath speaks about how a foreign fund plans to invest heavily in Irish forestry and how this will have the knock on effect of driving up land prices in what is already a very competitive market. Adam Woods from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about the beef outlook for 2023 as well as how he feels all dairy calves needs to be genotyped going forward to really find out what dairy beef sires are working. Brendan Guinan from Fíor Bhia Farm in Co. Laois chats about direct selling of meat from his 26 acre holding just outside Portlaoise and how his business is going from strength to strength.
This week MJ speaks about potential holiday destinations for farmers in early January. Nicola York from justsplit.com speaks about what’s on offer from sun to ski.With the organic farming scheme seeing an unprecedented number of applications this year, Jack Nolan from the Department of Agriculture chats about when farmers can expect to find out if they have been accepted into the 2023 scheme.Sean McNamara from Co. Westmeath was recently elected as joint president of the ICSA and he speaks about the challenges facing sheep and beef farmers in 2023.With €1100 per hectare available for a 20 year period under the new forestry programme for certain native trees, Jason Fleming from the IFA chats about this and how he feels Ash Dieback forestry owners need to be treated better.Finally, PJ Lynam from the Tullamore Tractor Run joins us in studio to speak about the annual tractor run which takes place on 28th December this year.
MJ chats to local farmer and one of the organisers of the Tullamore Food Fayre weekly market - Ray Dunne from Quarrymount Free Range Meats. Everything for Christmas is available at the market and all from local producers.Emma Dillon from Teagasc chats about the economic outlook for 2023 and how dairy farmers saw milk prices increase by a staggering 44% in 2022.With the land leasing market the strongest in history - a recent block of 50 acres made €570 per acre in Abbeyleix Co. Laois. Joseph Coogan Auctiooneer chats about this and the various blocks of land available for lease in Co. Laois in 2023.Changes with TB testing of cows are looming and Hugh Farrell from the ICSA chats about these potential changes.
This week MJ speaks to local Laois business Sliabh Bloom Christmas Trees about their unique model of choosing your tree and having it harvested there and then.Long term financial planning is something we all need to think about and Jerry O Neill from Brady Group chats about pensions and what the best option is for you.Darren Carty from the Irish Farmers Journal gives a round up on the livestock trade and an update on the staggering 45,000 plus applications for the ACRES scheme.Pearse Kelly from Teagasc speaks about next weeks beef conference where profitability and red clover are on the agenda.
On this week's show, MJ speaks to the IFA’s Martin Stapleton on a newly launched solar energy initiative between the IFA and Bord Gáis.The Teagasc National Dairy Conference takes place next week and Joe Patton speaks about the event including how dairy farmers are aiming to improve the breeding of dairy beef calves.Amy Forde from the Irish Farmer’s Journal speaks about the new Agri Food Regulator - will below cost selling be something that this regulator can actually tackle?The newly crowned FBD/Macra Young Farmer of the Year Christopher Tuffy chats about his 150 cow herd which he farms in north Sligo.
This weeks MJ chats to Westmeath man Leonard Green about his Pure MeatSnax for dogs with ingredients including grass fed beef and sea weed.
With 57% of farmers engaging in unsafe farming practices - David Meredith from the Be Safe Programme joins MJ to speak about what farmers can do to farm in a safer way.
Laois native Siobhán Walsh speaks about the Irish Farmer's Journal Tullamore Farm Open Day as part of the Footprint Farmers Programme.
Paul Molloy from Offaly business Boora Báinne speaks about investing in new equipment and how selling milk direct from his dairy farm is not as easy as people think.
This week MJ chats to Nuffield Scholar Brendan Crosses on the potential market for Irish sheep milk. Paul O Brien from the IFA speaks about smart farming and how different apps can help us farm more efficiently and effectively. James Dunne from Teagasc speaks about winter milking and how farmers are exiting the industry to return to a spring based system. Declan Marren from the Irish Farmers Journal speaks about newly announced changes in the EBI and how it will affect dairy farmers.