Bloom offer

If you’re planning a trip to Bloom at the Phoenix Park this June bank holiday weekend, you can get a discount on tickets as an IFA member. Book online before the event and use the promotional code ‘‘IFA17’’ to get an extra €2 discount off tickets. All kids go free as per previous years. Log on to www.bloominthepark.com to book tickets or for more details on food, features, show gardens, free seminars and entertainment.

Asulox use on hills

IFA hill committee chair Pat Dunne has welcomed the derogation from the Department of Agriculture to allow farmers to use Asulox for the control of ferns in hill areas during 2017. Dunne said that this was necessary as it is an essential tool for the management of upland areas.

Live exports

IFA livestock chair Angus Woods has said the live export trade is buoyant with buying for shipping to Turkey, Libya and Algeria putting a solid base in all categories of stock at the marts. He said he is confident that more Irish exporters will secure more contracts for the Turkish market and the live trade will be active throughout the summer and into next autumn. The calf export trade has been significantly helped by the reduction in Department charges secured by the IFA.

Trailer safety event

South Tipperary IFA is holding a trailer safety demonstration in Cahir Mart, in conjunction with An Garda Síochána, from 6pm to 9pm on Monday 29 May. Chair Simon Ryan has encouraged all farmers and trailer users to attend to make sure that they are updated on technical and legal road requirements and aware of important advice on safe and responsible use of trailers, safe driving, towing and strapping of loads.