WITH the latest outbreak of avian influenza, better known as bird flu, continuing to sweep across the country, poultry farmers in Fermanagh are being urged to seek help if they need it. Charity Rural Support is urging poultry farmers and their families to avail of its confidential emotional and practical assistance during what has become […]
Delegation in London to lobby for Fermanagh farmers
A DELEGATION is in London this week to lobby the Westminster government on the controversial planned changes to farming policy. With fears persisting on the impact the changes will have on rural farming families, such as those in Fermanagh, the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has made the trip along with a 20-strong delegation. The visit […]
‘Fermanagh Stars’ set to shine at calf show
FERMANAGH calves are set to take centre stage at a prestigious multi-breed event in Enniskillen next week. The Fermanagh Pedigree Livestock Breeders Ltd (FPLB) Premier Calf Show is being held on Saturday, November 15 at the Exhibition Hall at Ulster Farmers’ Mart, Enniskillen. The event has attracted over 55 entries of top-quality calves, featuring both […]
Success for local Beltex breeders
Sheep breeders from Fermanagh and neighbouring Tyrone were celebrating yet more success at Clogher Valley Livestock Mart recently, picking up top honours in the Beltex-sired Fat Lamb Show and Sale. Hosted by the Irish Beltex Sheep Breeder Club, the competition had a total prize fund of over £600, and was judged by Declan Robinson. The […]
Farmers urged to join new suckler cow fertility scheme
FERMANAGH farmers are being urged to sign up join a new initiative from the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), aimed at improving fertility in beef herds. The new themed-group programme focuses is as part of the college’s Beef Sustainability Package, and as well as having a practical purpose they are also a social aspect too. CAFRE […]
Farmers warned BVD restrictions are now in effect
FERMANAGH livestock farmers have been advised that herd restrictions have come into force to prevent the spread of Bovine Viral Diarrhoea (BVD). Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir announced the restrictions last week, which have been introduced on June 1 for animals over 30 days old that haven’t been tested for BVD. “BVD is a serious and […]
Trillick YFC celebrates success
TRILLICK and District Young Farmers’ Club (YFC) hosted another memorable Friends and Supporters Night last week, welcoming a fantastic turnout of family, friends, and community members to Trillick Hall. The evening was a heartfelt celebration of the club’s achievements over the past year, bringing together generations of supporters in a warm and lively atmosphere. The event […]
Warning for Fermanagh dog owners during lambing season
FERMANAGH dog owners have been warned to keep their dogs under control in the countryside, particularly now during the ongoing lambing season. The warning has been issued by Fermanagh and Omagh Council, who noted livestock worrying by dogs was “a key concern for farmers and still remains an issue”, with 30 reported incidents in the local […]
Agriculture apprenticeships graduate from CAFRE
FERMANAGH farmers of the future were celebrating recently after graduating from their agriculture apprenticeships at CAFRE’s Enniskillen campus. With the industry continuing to evolve rapidly, and the demand for skilled staff rising, apprenticeship raining has emerged as a popular option for students seeking hands-on experience in the field. CAFRE Enniskillen offer level 2 and level 3 part-time qualifications, […]
Fermanagh fears over foot and mouth return
IT’S NOT just Fermanagh’s farmers fearing the possible return of foot and mouth disease, with news of the return of the disease bringing back not-so-happy memories for many border residents over the age of 30. The government has issued another warning to farmers and animal keepers after last week it emerged three separate cases of […]