Dawn Meats is welcoming applications for year two of its Future Flocks initiative.

The programme, which operates similar to a discussion group, currently includes 30 sheep farmers aged between 18 and 40 years of age.

The company states that it is designed to enhance flock economic viability, improve on-farm efficiency and encourage continuous learning and innovation across the sheep sector.

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It adds that the initiative provides participants with opportunities to build knowledge, adopt new practices and develop strong networks with fellow farmers and industry stakeholders.

There is a financial incentive of €2/head on all quality assured sheep supplied to Dawn Meats and access to a support grant of up to €1,000 to help improve flock performance and farm resilience.

Eligibility criteria

The second year of the Future Flocks programme will commence in September 2026, with applications now open to new participants.

Eligible members must be suppliers of sheep certified under the Bord Bia Sustainable Beef and Lamb Assurance Scheme to Dawn Meats, be aged between 18 and 40, have completed or be currently undertaking the Green Certificate qualification or a similar course that will deliver the equivalent qualification and be actively involved in a breeding ewe enterprise

Farmers must demonstrate a strong commitment to the progressive development of their sheep farming business and be willing to engage with the programme.

During the first year of the programme, each group linked to Dawn Meats' plants in Ballyhaunis and Kildare participated in 10 dedicated meetings covering a broad range of topics central to the future success of Irish sheep enterprises.

These included lamb processing and supply chains, flock health, sheep breeding and genetics, infrastructure and innovation, regenerative agriculture and grazing systems, Irish sheep research, business efficiency and finance, young farmer access to land and generational renewal.

Those interested in taking part can contact Rebecca Rainey on 086-206 7409 or rebecca.rainey@dawnmeats.com, Roger Ryan on 087-253 4327 or John Kennedy on 087-260 5386.

Next generation

Dawn Meats' Rebecca Rainey, who works closely with the groups, said: “Future Flocks is about investing in the next generation of sheep farmers and providing them with the tools, knowledge and support needed to build profitable, resilient and sustainable businesses.

"The enthusiasm, innovation and commitment demonstrated by our members during the first year have been extremely encouraging and we look forward to expanding the programme further.”

Commenting on his experience in the programme, Future Flocks participant Stuart Meredith said: “Being part of the Future Flocks discussion group has been a great experience. It has allowed me to engage with like-minded sheep farmers, industry experts and advisers.

"Through regular meetings and discussions, I have had the opportunity to share experiences and learn from the successes and challenges of others.”