Irish Simmental Yearbook 2026 - Flipbook - Page 5
to stick to their program for Government promises. The news of the last few days indicating the
Europe are moving ahead with the trade deal is alarming and I am sure that this matter is not
closed yet.
The Bluetongue situation and the cessation of exports is of grave concern to the Irish Beef Industry
and Pedigree Breeders. The flow of genetics is vital for the maintaining and development of
all breeds. Our Society has been very active on this export issue from the get-go and the reopening of exports to N. Ireland was welcomed as N. Ireland is a key market. I want to thank all
Department of Agriculture Officials for their work on this matter and hope that they can make
similar progress in relation to mainland UK exports shortly, as a favorable outcome is in the best
interest of all Irish Beef Farmers.
Our Sales and Show continue to play a key role in the promotion of our breed, and I would
encourage all breeders to continue to put their best animals in the show window. The Simmental
breed can perform daily gains of up to and exceeding 2kgs/day and as a result be profitable for
farmers, so show them what we have got.
Our Clubs constantly need new voices and I ask breeders to consider getting involves at Club level.
Its through this involvement that new ideas are explored, and friendships established. By us all
working together, we can push the Simmental Breed forward.
Over the past two years the Simmental Community has lost many truly remarkable Simmental
Breeders. To their Families and friends, I want to express condolences on behalf of all members.
They will all be missed but please know they will always be reflected on positively when
Simmental Breeders discuss the past and the imprint breeders have left on the future.
I want to take this opportunity to thank my fellow Council Members for continuing to work for
the betterment of the Simmental Breed. There are a lot of challenges on the horizon but with all
working as a unit, we can do what is right for the breed.
On our administration side, I would like to thank Marian Bergin for her help and assistance during
her time with the Society and wish her all the best in her new role. On behalf of all breeders, I
want to take this opportunity to welcome Catriona McIntyre, our new Office administrator and
hope that she enjoys her time with the Society. Finally, I want to thank Peadar Glennon for his
continued commitment to the Simmental Breed.
Looking forward to meeting you all during the sales and summer shows, and lets all together
show the Simmental Breed as the best beef breed for Irish Farmers.
Yours Sincerely,
William O’Halloran
President, ISCS.
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