Darren Carty

The disease – which is increasing in prevalence – can hit flocks sporadically, resulting in rapid infection and possible mortality where the disease goes unnoticed.

The on-farm biosecurity scheme was launched last week, with a €6m fund capable of providing grant aid to 7,500 applicants in 2026.

Births to dairy dams are running 15,503 head, or 1.1% higher than in 2025, while births to beef cows are running 13,269 head, or 3.2% higher.

Supply issues emerged in 2025 following the removal of Bovilis Leptavoid-H from the market, but two products are on the market for 2026 including Spirovac and Biobas L6.

The purebred Texel ewes were the sale highlight, but there was also keen demand for ram lambs, with live export buyers active.

Base quotes for lambs have been reduced in cases by 40c/kg while hogget quotes are back by 20c/kg.

Prices in mart sales had been trending ahead of the factory trade but have come back in line with a bang this week with live exporters and wholesalers reducing purchasing activity

Bord Bia is using the opportunity of 100,000 consumers attending Bloom to showcase organic farming and organic food

The requirements regarding the purchase and installation of water troughs have been revised due to challenges sourcing troughs at a height of 0.9m

There is a packed programme of events on Sunday 31 May, with premier shearing competitions, a wool expo, traditional farrier demonstrations and MartBeat music concerts.