Darragh McCullough: Why the shrinking national herd isn't the crisis some think it is
Briefly

Recently, Ireland's national herd has decreased by 290,000 animals, sparking discussions about the changes in its farming landscape. The dairy sector witnessed a notable decline of 50,000 cows in just one year despite being historically more lucrative. While profitability in suckler farming continues to dwindle, dairy farming has offered better financial returns, forcing farmers to adapt their operations. This trend reflects a broader transformation in agricultural practices and the challenges faced within the industry.
The ongoing decline of Ireland's national herd, including a substantial drop in dairy cow numbers, signals a shift in agricultural practices rather than a mere downturn in farming.
Farmers have struggled with the profitability of suckler farming, which has been in decline for over a decade. In contrast, dairy farming presented a financial advantage.
Read at Independent
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