The Irish Co-operative Organisation Society (ICOS) is encouraging livestock producers to put appropriate pre-weaning vaccination programmes in place for this year's weanling crop ahead of autumn sales.

It is important to ensure proper vaccination, dosing, nutrition and overall herd management is put in place now in advance of sale day, vice-president of ICOS and marts committee chair Sean Brosnan has said.

He highlighted that vaccination will help to protect animal health, maximise sale potential, provide greater confidence for buyers at home and support Ireland's valuable live export trade.

This, in turn, can protect the overall value of the market and support competitive returns in the interests of all farmers.

Appropriate vaccination programme

“Immunity takes time to develop, so it’s important now to talk to your vet and identify the most appropriate vaccination programme for the herd to ensure sufficient time for vaccines to provide effective protection,” Brosnan said.

“The ICOS marts committee knows that very many farmers already operate excellent herd health programmes and we commend those efforts.

“Ireland's live export trade is an important source of competition and plays a valuable role in sustaining demand for Irish cattle across a range of European markets. Maintaining the confidence of these customers is in the interests of the entire sector and helps to underpin competition for stock at marts throughout the country.

“By continuing to improve herd health standards across the sector, we can bolster the reputation of Irish weanlings, support live exports and help deliver the best possible outcomes for farmers."