Preparations for Sheep 2018, the major sheep event taking place on Saturday 7 July in Teagasc, Mellows Campus, Athenry, are gaining momentum following last week’s launch of the event by Minister Andrew Doyle.

Minister Doyle stated that the Department of Agriculture remains committed to supporting the sheep sector, adding that it is a vital contributor to Ireland’s exports with a value in excess of €274m in 2017, while also being an integral part of rural Ireland.

Minister Doyle said schemes such as the Animal Welfare Sheep Scheme were vital to maintaining confidence and supporting the sector and stressed that every effort will be made to ensure its continuation beyond its current timeline.

Commercial exhibit bookings are coming in fast with the deadline for booking stands approaching.

Those interested in exhibiting can email sheep2018@teagasc.ie or phone Norina Coppinger at 091-845274.

Breed societies displaying and holding national or regional competitions are also collecting bookings and breeders are advised to make contact with their society regarding the booking in of animals for Sheep 2018.

The event takes a two-pronged approach in 2018 with a major technical element joined by a strong focus on food to celebrate Galway, West of Ireland, European Region of Gastronomy 2018.

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