Dear members,
It is hard to believe that yet another year is behind us again. This year has been a memorable one for our society having hosted the World Technical Congress in August. For the hard work you the membership put into the quality displayed at our National Show in Tullamore, I would like to say a sincere thank you.
To everyone who helped out in every way, especially the farms who made massive efforts to accommodate delegate visits, thank you. You should all be extremely proud of the representation of Irish Charolais you contributed to. For the first time ever, Irish Charolais genetics will travel to Australia.
2019 has certainly been a difficult year for our customers both suckler and finishers alike, but Charolais are still the number ONE across the board in commercial rings nationwide. We must do everything possible to capitalise on the obvious demand for what we as pedigree breeders produce.
The Christmas Cracker produced a sale the likes of which we haven’t seen for some time. With an 87% clearance rate and an average that was slightly up on last year, it certainly was refreshing to witness the demand for Charolais.
During 2019, we had a very productive meeting with all clubs and it was brilliant to see the enthusiasm stemming from the various debates which took place. This will be repeated early next year.
One club which deserves a special mention is the Galway Charolais Club. They have shown initiative in putting together a draft proposal which if taken on-board, could have a positive impact on future departmental schemes. It’s this kind of positive, forward thinking that is needed.
Given the increased focus on a greener climate, efficiency was never more relevant. The ability that Charolais possess to generate weight for age is key. No other beef breed compares. The statistics speak for themselves.
Council have made every effort to source new bloodlines on your behalf and thankfully this year has been fruitful. All going well, there will be some exciting new bulls available to you by early spring 2020.
On that note, I want to wish you all a very happy Christmas. Here’s hoping that 2020 will bring you everything you wish for.
Noel Mc Goldrick,
ICCS President.