ICMSA Kilkenny meeting addresses farming issues

As the pace of change and challenges picks up for Kilkenny’s flagship dairy sector, the local executive of ICMSA gathered last Monday, April 3, in the Springhill Court Hotel, to discuss matters.
On the agenda was the disturbing and growing incidence of bovine TB in the county, as well as the controversial Nitrates Banding policy currently being introduced.
The stresses and pressures on milk price as dairy markets fall was also discussed.

Out photographer Harry Reid went along to take pictures of those in attendance. Click 'NEXT' to see lots more photographs. Scroll down to read about the meeting.

ABOVE: Eamon and John Mooney with Pat Murphy

Speakers and contributors included Ann Quinn, Vet Inspector with Kilkenny and Waterford RVO, and David Quinn, Vet Inspector with the DAFM. Pat Murphy of Tirlan spoke on milk price and dairy markets, while local Dunbell farmer and Deputy President of ICMSA, Denis Drennan, covered the controversial issue of Nitrates Banding.

Mr Drennan, who also chairs the ICMSA Farm & Rural Affairs Committee, is considered extremely knowledgeable on how the new regulations will impact the family dairy farms that comprise the overwhelming majority of ICMSA’s Kilkenny membership.
Chairperson for the evening was Tom Corcoran of Ballyhale with Pat Holden of Mullinavat acting as Secretary to the meeting.