The society had a hugely successful stand at the 2019 Ploughing Championships, with visitors flocking to view the quality commercial Suffolk cross lambs on display, which showcased the best of Suffolk traits available to commercial farmers.

In June 2021, the society was approved by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to operate a pedigree Suffolk breeding programme in Ireland, making it the largest ovine breeding programme in the country.

“As a standalone Irish society, we have much to offer the Irish commercial farmer,” says chairman Dan O’Mahony.

“Confidence in the society is at an all time high, with membership growing rapidly. We feel that zootechnical certification and approval of the breeding programme has played a large part in this growth.

“Long recognised as the top terminal sire, many commercial breeders are now also looking to introduce the maternal Suffolk traits into their flocks.

As a standalone Irish society, we have much to offer the Irish commercial farmer

“This makes perfect sense in the current financial climate, as the Suffolk cross lamb can finish from grass in 12 weeks, allowing farmers access to premium farm gate prices with reduced input costs,” said O’Mahony.

The society had a successful premier sale in Blessington, which saw over 50% of rams sold heading into the commercial sector.

“Our stand in 2022 will be in the same prominent position it held in 2019 in the NSBA pavilion,” O’Mahony said.

The hugely popular ‘guess the weight of the lamb’ competition will be back and the winner will receive a €200 voucher towards the purchase of a pedigree Suffolk ram.

There will also be an opportunity to purchase rams at the upcoming provincial sales. Contact 083-090 7313 for details.

Ploughing

This year’s Ploughing will be a superb opportunity to showcase the Suffolk breed and re-acquaint with old friends with whom we have been unable to meet due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Anyone interested in learning about the Suffolk breed or in joining the society can come along to the stand in the NSBA pavilion at any time during the week.