salerscattlesocietyofirelandltd. 7theditionirishsalers.com/saler_doc_2014.pdf · salers 05...

Salers Cattle Society of Ireland Ltd. 7th Edition

2014The Corlurgan herd was established in 1997 by Brianand Philomena Halton and since Brians death in 2010the Corlurgan cattle are still well recognised for playingits part in the success of the Salers breed in Irelandand the Halton name is thought of positively withSalers.

In 2007 their son, Seamus set up the Corlurganwebsite and though they no longer exhibit, theirbloodlines success stories of shows/sales/ICBFfigures and AI are acknowledged on their webpage.

Seamus, who was PRO retired from the council, isalways on hand promoting and supporting Salersat Shows when possible.

Following Brians death, they exhibited one last time atBeef Expo Ireland 2010. They won Overall SalersChampion with their young stock bull Lataster Ivan, a fitting end to a long show career from the Corlurgan herd.

Philomena has continued farming and caring for Seamus and Ann. She is a fantastic lady, with all she has done and doesnow, she has such a positive gloss on everything.

The Halton family sponsor the Brian Halton Memorial Cup which is awarded to the National Female Salers Championannually.

Ella McSweeney (Ear to the Ground),Philomena and Seamus Halton

2013Michael and Kathleen Ward established the"Dunlo" Herd 15 years ago in Ballinasloe, Co.Galway. Since then they have gone to Franceannually purchasing Salers from top Salersherds to build up their herd.

They are no strangers to the show ringsaround the country, where their Salers cattlehave won numerous prizes over the years.They are both involved in running BallinasloeAgricultural Show making sure there's a goodturn out for the Salers classes.

Both Michael and Kathleen have been involvedwith the Salers Cattle Society since it startedin Ireland and are both currently on thecouncil.

Niamh Lynch(Fresh Food Director for Tesco),

Kathleen and Michael Ward.

NATIONAL HALL OF FAME AWARDS

Congratulations to Bernard Hunt, Lisbaleely, Gurteen, Co. Sligo on winning the photo competition.The photo is the picture on the front cover of this journal.

01SALERS FOR SUCKLING

INDEX TO ADVERTISMENTS

A.I.B. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27Ashbury Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

Ballygar Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22Ballymackeogh Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32, 33Breffni Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18Brownhall Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Carrentubber Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Cuan Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19

Dovea Genetics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23Dunlo Salers, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Back Cover

IFAC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Killasser Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21Knottown Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Laois Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Manusmore Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Moygara Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Parknageragh Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Powerful Genetics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

Rathlacken Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44Richard Bradley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Sheelin Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39Sligo Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28, 29Sycamore Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Tullamaine Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Weatherbys Ireland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41Wicklow Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13Woodview Salers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

CONTENTSNational Hall of Fame . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Front CoverCouncil Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 01Secretary’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .01Chairman’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .02The Constitution of the Society . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .02Contact Details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .02Registrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .03Charges . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .03List of Members . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .04,05,06Focus on the Female . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14Gort Co-Op Livestock Mart Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15Salers the Breed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16National Salers Cow Champion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20Beta-Mannosidosis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27Show Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34,35,36,37Why are more Farmers using Salers Bulls? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37All Ireland Salers National Calf Champion . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40Dates for your Diary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40Salers Society Shows and Sales . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42,43Organic Beef Farmer using Three Salers Bulls . . . . . . . . . . . .45Gene Ireland Maternal Bull Breeder Programme . . . . . . . . . .46Salers Bulls in Gene Ireland Programme . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47Sires Used . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48, 49, 50, 51International Salers Federation Tour in Ireland . . . . . .52, 53, 54Salers ticking all the right boxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

COUNCIL MEMBERS 2014Chairman:Joe Fortune, Knottown,Wexford, Co.Wexford.

Vice-Chairman:David Kirrane, Carrentubber,Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo.

Treasurer:Eddie Brennan, Coon East, Coon, Co. Kilkenny.

Council:James McGroarty, Brownhall, Ballintra, Co. Donegal.John Keating, Ballymackeogh Lodge, Kilnaboy, Co. Clare.Bernard Hunt, Lisbaleely, Gurteen, Co. Sligo.Michael Ward, Mackney, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway.John O'Malley, Derradda East, Recess, Connemara, Co. Galway.Tom Fitzpatrick, Kilcoke Lodge, Ballybrophy, Portlaoise, Co. LaoisRichard Fortune, Knottown,Wexford, Co.Wexford.Padraig McConn,The Paddocks, Galway Road, Ballygar, Co. Galway.Kathleen Ward, Mackney, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway.Seamus Maher, Slevinagee, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon.Fernand Crowe, Carrickabawn, Ballinagh, Co. Cavan.Seamus Nagle, CastleView, Doolin, Co. Clare.

THE SALERS CATTLESOCIETYOF IRELAND LTD.

SECRETARY'S REPORTIt is wonderful to see we have printed our seventh edition of our“Salers for Suckling” Journal.A big thank you to all who supportus by advertising in our Journal and to those who sent in articles.

The regional shows are on at the moment and a big thanks shouldbe given to all breeders who show Salers cattle, both at the showsand the show and sale.There is a lot of time and energy goes intopreparing and showing cattle for these shows.

Since we printed our last journal, we hosted the InternationalSalers Federation Conference in Ireland. It was a great successwith fantastic reports coming from all our friends around theWorld. I’d like to thank everyone who helped make this event sucha success.

Registrations and memberships are still on the increase, this is dueto farmers realising how good the Salers animals really are.Weare now doing Direct Debits for calf Registrations.This will makeit easier for the busy farmer when registering his pedigree calvesas no notification is necessary as long as the calf is named. Formore information on joining up to Direct Debits, contactsecretary.

Finally, thanks to David Kirrane who retired as Chairman on theCouncil and remains as vice-chairman, and to Joe Fortune our newChairman who is doing a great job.

Also, thanks to the Council members and to all involved in eventswith the Salers Cattle Society of Ireland.

Meryl Gillespie. Secretary.


CHAIRMAN’S REPORTLooking back over the last two years, since the 6th Salers Journal was printed, I see we have made some good progress. One ofour main achievements is that we now have got more Irish bred bulls into the A.I. stations. Some of these bulls were boughtprivately by the A.I. companies from our top breeders. The other bulls were selected for the Gene Ireland breeding programby I.C.B.F. and a committee which consisted of breeders and representatives of the A.I. companies.These bulls were selectedfrom herds signed up to the bull breeding program.This program involves recording all relevant data, e.g. birth weight, linearscoring, and weights between 250 and 350 days of all pedigree animals. It also helps if the weights of other animals on the farmare recorded.

I think having good Salers bulls available through A.I. is an important way of promoting our breed.A farmer may not buy a bull at first, but could use some A.I. straws to try out the breed. With this in mind we must be verycareful to have the right semen available, paying particular attention to docility, milk yield, ease of calving, fertility and all traitsthat make the salers cow the ultimate suckler cow. This will show that you do not need a dairy cross as a suckler cow.

The International Salers Federation Convention 2012 was hosted by the Irish Salers Society. It was an outstanding success, thanksin no small way to the organisers and all the members that hosted the farm visits. A very big effort was made in catering for,and introducing the guests to some Irish customs, traditional music and the Irish trashing. Thanks to all concerned.

The future of the Irish Salers cattle depends on all the members throughout the country helping to promote the breed. Thereare some large areas, many counties without a representative on the council. I would love to see, and very much welcome newmembers, particularly young members with new and fresh ideas.

I must thank all the Council members for their good work and help throughout the year. I especially thank all the people whoshowed their animals. I appreciate all the hard work it takes.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Meryl for all the work she has done, and for her diligence and for the professionalway she runs our society.

Looking forward to the future success of the Irish Salers Society.Joe FortuneChairman

THE CONSTITUTION OF THE SOCIETY

After fourteen years in existence some people are unclear on the difference between,(a) The Salers Society and (b) The Herd Book.Briefly I will explain:-The official name of the Society is “The Salers Cattle Society of Ireland Co-Operative Ltd.” The registered offices of the Societyare Glenard House, Cloughjordan, Co.Tipperary. The Society is Registered as a co-operative with the Irish co-operativeorganisational Society, and is governed by a statutory set of rules under the authority of the Dept. of Industry and commerce.The Herd book is a service to breeders of Pedigree cattle whereby the parentage history of Registered cattle is recorded.

The Society is run by a committee elected by the shareholders. An Annual General Meeting of shareholders is held each yearwhich considers the financial affairs of the Society for the previous year and appoints an Auditor for the coming year. Onethird of the committee retire each year and are eligible for re-election. Only shareholders of the Society receive notificationof the A.G.M.Every breeder of Salers Cattle should be a Shareholder in the Co-op. Shares cost €1 each with a minimum of 30 per applicant.An application form for Shares is available from the secretary.A breeder can register cattle in the Herd Book at the same price irrespective of whether he/she is a Shareholder or not. Thesubscription fee paid annually by breeders is a contribution towards the running costs of the Society, and the promotion ofthe breed, but is not a membership fee.

SALERS CATTLE SOCIETY OF IRELANDContact: Meryl Gillespie (Secretary)

Glenard House, Cloughjordan, Co.Tipperary.Tel/Fax: 0505 42245 Email: [email protected] Web: www.irishsalers.com


REGISTRATIONS:NEW MEMBERS All new breeders will be requested to completean “Application for Membership” form & sign a “white form”, thisform allows us access to your Pedigree Salers Data through ICBFfor Pedigree Registrations.All Pedigree animals have to be registered through theAnimal EventsRecording Sheets or on line, making sure to name a pedigree calf,(instead of the regular white cards, as notification of birth now goesthrough to I.C.B.F,). Do not send any money with sheet toI.C.B.F..

Payment Fee and Notification of Pedigree CalfRegistration must be paid before calf reaches 40 daysof age, otherwise late penalties will apply. CalfNational I.D. number must be supplied with payment.Send this to Salers Secretary the same time as you register the calf.

DIRECT DEBITS Direct Debit for payment of calf registrations isnow set up. By using Direct Debit this means no need to sendcheques or notify society when calves are born as long as calves arenamed and avoids late penalties. A statement detailing theregistrations is sent out to the breeder 12 days before payment istaken, allowing ample time to query the invoice if necessary.Direct Debit is the only efficient means of payment for both you andthe Salers Cattle Society. If you choose to pay by Direct Debit pleasecontact secretary.

Herd Prefix. This is a name you choose to call your herd.

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION No animal will be registered untilAnnualSubscription for the year is paid. Subscriptions are due on 1stJanuary each year. Standing Order Form/Direct Debit Form isavailable from Secretary.No invoice will be sent so it would be helpful if all members wouldpay promptly.

CALF REGISTRATION When a calf is born and you register eitheron line or on the sheet in the Animal Events Recording Book, youmust name the calf for it to become a pedigree. If it is not named itwon’t be picked up. Only name the calves you want pedigreeregistered. A cancellation fee applies to calves that are named andnot completed with pedigree registrations.NAME OF CALF. All calves born in the year 2014, their name shouldstart with the letter “O”, e.g.Owen or Orla, the year 2015, start withthe letter “P” etc..The Birth notification time is 40 days from date of birth. Latepenalties will apply. (See charges). If you name a calf when registeringand don't proceed with registration there is a €5.00 cancellation fee.

INSEMINATIONS If your A.I. technician, has a handheld it should gothrough on the system automatically.

If your A.I. technician hasn’t a handheld, the insemination must gothrough ICBF, this can be done various ways.You will have to gothrough the ICBF web-site (www.icbf.com) (help desk 1850625626),then go to “Record Events” Record A.I./ Natural Services, the dateof insemination must be manually put in by you and the A.I code ofthe bull used for that dam.OR:If you use the “Animal Events Recording Book”, you must completethe Insemination or Service section, completing the date of event,ear tag number of the dam, AI code or ear tag number of bull.OR:Send A.I. Certificates to Secretary with payment for Registrations ofcalves.

D.I.Y. A.I. Inseminators must record all inseminations through I.C.B.F.either on line or on the sheet of the Animal Events Recording Book.

STOCK BULLS Stock Bull owners should record the date of whenthe Bull is put into the herd and record through Animal Events againwhen the Bull is taken away.This will have to be done through the“Animal Events Recording Book”.All Stock Bulls must be DNA typed to Register pedigree calves born.DNA bags are available from Secretary. Breeder pays for his own bullto be DNA’d.

IMPORTS The original Pedigree Certificate and Beta-mannosidosisCertificate along with payment, should be sent to Secretary within 3months from date of entry or late penalties apply.

EXPORTS Any animals being exported from Ireland must have anExport Pedigree Certificate which can be got from Salers CattleSociety by the seller and all males must be DNA'd for Sire and Dam.The beta-mannosidosis test would have been done by parentage.

TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP This fee (see charges) is payable bythe purchaser who should obtain the Certificate from the seller andforward to the Secretary to transfer into his/her name.

EMBRYO TRANSPLANT (ET) If a calf is got by Embryo Transplant,(ET) will follow its name.ET Pedigree calves must be parentage DNA'd within 6 months ofbirth.

No calves will be registered unless they have a two generationpedigree certificate for Sire and Dam and have been tested as non-carriers for Beta-mannosidosis or are non-carrier by parentage.

No transactions complete until all payments are paidand paperwork correctly supplied. It is theresponsibility of the member to get all relevantinformation to the Society Office on time or latepenalties will be incurred.

CHARGES € €All female and male calves (except ET)up to 40 days 4040 days to 90 days 6091 days to 180 days 110Full parentage DNA required after 180 days old.

Cancellation fee 5

Transfer of Ownership 25

Annual Subscription- by bankers order (standing order/direct debit form) 45- by cheque/cash/postal order 50

Associate members annual subscription 25

Joining Fees and registration of herd prefix 50

Export certificate 40

Registration of Imported Cattle up to3 months from date of entry 403 - 6 months from date of entry 75after 6 months from date of entry 125

Registration 1st and 2nd cross up to 1 yr. 15Over 1 yr. 40

Embryo transplant (ET) calves up to 40 days 4540 days to 90 days 9091 days to 180 days 140Registration of Embryos (including Imported)minimum per animal flushed (up to 10 embryos) 14thereafter per embryo 1After 3 months - minimum peranimal flushed (up to 10 embryos) 30thereafter per embryo 2


LIST OF MEMBERSCO. CARLOWStaighre Dubh Coady John, Ballybeg Big, St. Mullins, Co. Carlow. 087-7706476

CO. CAVANLataster Clarke Brendan, Lataster, Lisgrey,Virginia, Co. Cavan. 049-8544069, 087-4198450Hilltop Clarke Nigel, Oola, Grousehall, Bailieborough, Co. Cavan. 042-9660416, 086-8762588Aughalion Clerkin Paddy,Aughalion, Ballyjamesduff, Co. Cavan. 0862753739Drung Laragh Coyle Brian, Corfeehone, Ballyhaise, Co. Cavan. 049-4338039, 086-3857028Drumlion Crowe Augustine, Drumlion, Ballinagh, Co. Cavan. 049-4337859, 087-2635649Breffni Crowe Fernand, Carrickabawn, Ballinagh, Co. Cavan. 087-2274296Lacken Crowe Joseph, Drumlion, Ballinagh, Co. Cavan. 049-4367949, 087-2635649Cornafean Fitzpatrick Noel,Annagh, Cornafean, Co. Cavan. 049-4337922, 087-7775277Knockateggart Fitzsimons Clement Michael, Knockateggart, Stradone, Co. Cavan. 049-4330922, 086-2752302Sheelin Gaffney Seamus,Aughterera, Crosserlough, Co. Cavan. 049-8540342, 087-2700766Corlurgan Halton Philomena, Corlurgan, Bailiboro, Co. Cavan. 042 - 9665236Forthill Kinnear Lester, Lisnalea, Bailborough, Co. Cavan. 042-9665254, 087-2805026Skeagh McCormack Garreth, Skeagh, Bailieborough, Co. Cavan. 086-8697423Lisnalee McIntyre Pat, Lisnalee, Bailieboro, Co. Cavan. 042 -9665318Laurels Murray Brian, Barrack St. Bailieborough, Co. Cavan. 087-9120892, 042-9665414Miller Smith Desmond,Tonylion, Kilnaleck, Co. Cavan. 049-4336127, 087-7972048

CO. CLAREBallyvonnavaun Bell Declan, Ballyvonnavaun,Clarecastle, Ennis, Co. Clare. 065-6828250, 086-3352134Manusmore Burke John, Manusmore, Clarecastle, Ennis, Co. Clare. 086-8129067Wingfield Cahir William,Wingfield, Kilshanny, Co. Clare. 087-6191241Gurteen Conlon Owen, Gurteen,Tulla Co. Clare. 065 - 6835497, 086-8421914Ahey Bridge Hehir Terry,Ahey Bridge, Mullagh, Co. Clare. 087-2937675, 065-7084023Corralinn Hughes David, Dromod, Bodyke, Co. Clare. 061-921357, 086-7272424Ballymackeogh Keating John & Martina, Ballymackeogh Lodge, Killnaboy, Co. Clare. 065- 6837893, 086-6065868Cragg Leamy Michael,Toonagh,Tulla, Co. Clare. 065 - 6835455Burrenvalley McGann Michael James & Ann,Aughavinane, Bellharbour, Co. Clare. 065-7078087, 087-2367650Lemnaleha McGuane Kevin, Lemnaleha, Ballynacally, Ennis, Co. Clare. 065-6834009Gurtavrulla McNamara Gerard, Gurtavrulla, Feakle, Co. Clare. 087-1364818Clare Meade Niall, Cragg, Lissycasey, Ennis, Co. Clare. 087-6628099, 065-6834485Glendara Moloney Tim, Glandree, Feakle, Co. Clare. 061-924125, 087-7770350Doonagore Nagle Seamus, Castleview, Doolin, Co. Clare. 065-7074289, 086-3227046Carnacalla O'Donoghue Pat, Carnacalla, Kilrush, Co. Clare. 087-6329202Callan O'Halloran John, Mount Callan, Inagh, Ennis, Co. Clare 087-2424499Inchiquin O'Sullivan Michael, Inchiquin, Kilnaboy, Ennis, Co. Clare 065-6837027Monanaleen O'Sullivan Patrick, Main St. Corrafin, Ennis, Co. Clare. 065-6837084Cloncolman Stephens Michael, Cloncolman, Lissycasey, Ennis, Co. Clare. 065-6834048, 086-3031267

CO. CORKLeeview Browne Dan, Loughlee, Carrigadrohid, Co. Cork. 026-48130, 087-6689556.Powerstown Cronin Patrick, Powerstown Hse, Mallow, Co. Cork. 022-26632, 087-2716499Lisheeda Hurley Paul, Lisheeda, Innishannon, Co. Cork. 021-4701572, 086-8314065Anniemays Hurley Michael, Moneyvolihane, Skibbereen, Co. Cork. 028-22930, 086-8158786Lackaduve Kelleher David, Droumree, Macroom, Co. Cork. 026-41751, 086-8502800Ahildotia McCarthy Mary,Ahildotia, Kealkil, Bantry, Co. Cork. 087-9262390Wallstown McNamara Jerry,Wallstown, Castletownroche, Mallow, Co. Cork.086-2560246, 086-8359302Kilglass Moriarty Paul, Kilglass, Mitchelstown, Co. Cork. 086-4081376Bluemoon Murphy Edward J. Bluemoon Stud, Ballyvourney, Macroom, Co. Cork. 026-45112, 086-1969328Belmount Murray Brendan, Lr. Belmount, Crookstown, Co. Cork. 021-7335733, 087-6576038Forrest Murray Dan & Annette, Forrest, Coachford, Co. Cork. 021-7334588, 086-3993039Highfield O'Connell Niall,Toames East, Macroom, Co. Cork. 026-42801, 087-6109861Sugarloaf O'Connor Cornelius, Gurteen, Bantry, Co. Cork. 027-50991, 087-9383425Ardkilly Tierney Finbarr,Ardkilly, Sandycove, Kinsale, Co. Cork.086-2624761

CO. DONEGALStragar Byrne Christina, Stragar, Killybegs, Co. Donegal. 074-9732018, 087-2475550Castle Glenn Ivan, Moneygreggan, Newtowncunningham, Co. Donegal. 074-9156626Askill Hill Henry,Askill, Ballyshannon, Co. Donegal. 086-0686530Whitehill Maxwell Rachel,Doorinpoint, Mountcharles, Co. Donegal. 074-9751043Brownhall McGroarty James, Brownhall, Ballintra, Co. Donegal. 074 - 9734434, 087-9836148Belmount Murray Brendan, Lr. Bellmount, Crookstown, Co. Cork. 021-7335733, 087-9873745.

CO. DUBLINAshbury Melvin Alfred,Ashbury House, Kilmartin Lane, Hollystown, Dublin 15. 01-8205214, 086-2583643

CO. FERMANAGHCarricknahorna Duffy Brian, Garvery, Leggs, Beleek, Co. Fermanagh. 086-8890150

CO. GALWAYGurrane Burke Michael, Cahertubber,Athenry, Co. Galway. 087-4184521Aille Canavan Padhraic,Aille, Inverin, Co. Galway 091-593022Craughwell Clarke Dympna,Templemartin, Craughwell, Galway.087-6576038Ruane Doherty James, Harbour Road, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. 0909-643494, 087-1345291Lakeview Duggan Sean, Lakeview, Claregalway, Co. Galway.091-799235


Cregboy Giles Martin, Cregboy, Claregalway, Co. Galway. 091-799337, 087-9140037Kilmurry Joyce Nigel, Kilmurry, Dunmore, Co. Galway. 093-45699, 086-8555157.Ballygar McConn Padraig,The Paddocks, Galway Rd, Ballygar, Co. Galway.0906 -624886, 087-1271106Ganty McNamara David, Ganty, Craughwell, Co. Galway. 087-2907394Cloondahamper Mitchell Patrick, Cloondahamper, Lavally,Tuam, Co. Galway. 093-45849Kilbannon Moran Noreen, Cloonascragh, Kilbannon,Tuam, Co. Galway. 086-8552367, 093-26072Sallywood Morgan Michael Thomas, Kilsallagh,Williamstown, Co. Galway.094-9655180Spiddal O'Conghaile Padraic, Letterpeak, Spiddal, Co. Galway.091-553012, 087-2843417Cloonhill O'Connell Patrick, Cloon Biggen, Claregalway, Co. Galway. 091-799660, 087-9694841Connemara O'Malley John, Derradda East, Recess, Connemara, Co. Galway.086-8760104Cloonmore Ryan Adrian, Cloonmore,Tuam, Co. Galway. 087-2151060Ballyconneely Sweeney Sean, Dunloughan Road, Bunowen, Ballyconneely, Co. Galway. 087-1726529Knockavilra Walsh David, Fountain Hill, Claddaghduff, Clifden, Co. Galway.095-44875, 087-9145757Dunlo Ward Michael & Kathleen, Mackney, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway. 0909-646821, 087-2457137.

CO. KERRYGuhard Buckley Desmond, Guhard, Lisselton, Co. Kerry. 068-47127, 087-6269724Doonsheane Farrell Michael, Doonsheane, Dingle, Co. Kerry. 066-9151280Templenoe Harrington Robert, Reen, Kenmare Co. Kerry. 064 - 41224, 086-8275517Knockwest Long Stephen, Scart, Knocknagoshel,Tralee, Co. Kerry.068-46342, 087-6160885Gows Lynch Daniel, Harbour Lights, Portmagee, Co. Kerry. 066 - 9477172Parknageragh McAuliffe Mike, Parknageragh,Tullig, Castle Island, Co. Kerry. 066 - 7141933Tubbertureen McEnery Pat Joe,Tubbertureen, Moyvane, Co. Kerry. 068-49345Dirreen Quaid Darren, 21 Sandhill Park, Ballybunion, Co. Kerry. 068-27950, 087-9953241

CO. KILDAREThornbrook Connolly John, Kilrush, Narraghmore,Athy, Co. Kildare. 087-8111009Rath JCR Cross Joe, Rathmore House, Main Street, Rathangan, Co. Kildare. 086-3872773

CO. KILKENNYWoodview Brennan Eddie, Coon East, Coon, Co. Kilkenny. 087-9263048, 085Tullamaine Byrne Andrew,Tullamaine House, Callan, Co. Kilkenny 086-8100360Green Island Comerford John, New Road, Moneenroe, Castlecomer, Co. Kilkenny. 087-6354385Castletown Tobin Dermot, Farm Ltd, Castlane,Whitechurch, Carrick-on-suir, Co. Kilkenny. 051-641321, 087-2540357

CO. LAOISBallygormill Delaney Brendan, Ballygormill,Timahoe, Co. Laois.057-8627206, 086-1584952Old Forge Dunne Patrick, Moonbawn, Mountrath, Co, Laois. 086-1224469Laois Fitzpatrick Tom, Kilcoke Lodge, Ballybrophy, Portlaoise, Co. Laois. 0505-46400Cardtown Moore Finbar, Cardtown, Mountrath, Co. Laois.057-8735011, 087-4126011

CO. LEITRIMCarrowcrin McPadden Brendan, Carrowcrin, Dromahair, Co. Leitrim. 086-8244624

CO. LIMERICKCooleen Bray Margo, Caherduff, Croom, Co. Limerick. 086-3437111Jessbrook Culhane Thomas Jason, Camas, Newcastle West, Co. Limerick 069-72769, 087-1655540, 087-2236815Ballyhoura Flynn Tom, Labbamologga, Knockanevin, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick 062-46683, 086-8125193Crecora Gore John, Jockey Hall, Crecora, Co. Limerick. 061-355863, 087-9813588Athea Hartnett Daniel, Clash,Athea, Co. Limerick. 087-7401746Drehidtrasna Lenihan Joseph & Breda, Drehidtrasna,Adare, Co. Limerick. 087-2737664Glenmore Mulcahy Thomas J, Barossa, Strand, Co Limerick.069-61376, 087-1264169Abbeyfeale Murphy David, Ballaugh South,Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick. 068 - 32528, 087-7629099Ballaugh Murphy David,BridgeView, Ballaugh,Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick. 068-32076, 086-3801774Manister Power Joe, Caherduff, Manister, Croom, Co. Limerick. 087-2106719Ballysheedy Ryan Damien, "Sheedy", Ballysheedy,Co. Limerick.087-8342368Glengar Ryan James B. Glengar, Doon, Co. Limerick. 086-8582940Annagh Ryan P.J.Annagh, Lisnagry, Co. Limerick. 061-378151, 086-1052916Lackanagoneeney Whelan Tim, Cooga, Doon, Co. Limerick.061-380218, 087-2895162

CO. LONGFORDBallinamuck Hurson Michael, Gaigue, Ballinamuck, Co. Longford.043-84202, 087-6337144Clonfide Lennon Gerard, Curracreehan, Moydow, Co. Longford. 043-22427, 087-9228907Rathcline O'Reilly Terry,Teach Raghallaigh, Rathcline, Lanesboro, Co. Longford. 043-3321735, 086-2634452Miregold Prunty Michael, Ohill, Drumlish, Co. Longford. 087-2381957

CO. LOUTHGreenmount Meehan Terry, Greenmount, Castlebellingham, Dundalk, Co. Louth. 042-9372867

CO. MAYOHagfield Beirne Micheal, Hagfield, Charlestown, Co. Mayo. 086-2693385Roskeel Joyce Brendan, Roskeel House, Keel,Achill, Co. Mayo. 098-43537, 087-9340429Castlebar Lavelle Padraic, Knockaskibbole, Castlebar, Co. Mayo. 094-9025260, 087-6105415Derryronane Lynskey Michael, Killaturley, Swinford, Co. Mayo. 094-9252030, 087-6478616Killasser Maloney John, Killasser, Swinford, Co. Mayo. 094 - 9251265, 087-7771153Clew Bay McGreal Thomas, Prospect,Westport, Co. Mayo. 098-28095, 087-6569596Hillside McGreal Patrick, Prospect,Westport, Co. Mayo.086-0525100Belleek Melvin Kieran, Moyview Lodge, Belleek, Ballina, Co. Mayo. 096-71558, 086-3360135Cahir Murphy Declan, Kilbrick, Cloubur, Co. Mayo.094-9548460, 087-2233233Goulane Prendergast Joe, Swinford Road, Kilkelly, Co. Mayo. 087-2682649Liscarn Shannon Declan, Bohola Road, Kiltimagh, Co. Mayo. 094-81375, 086-8327161Rathlacken Williams Patrick, Rathlacken, Carrowmore, Lacken, Ballina, Co. Mayo. 096-34717, 086-8596071


CO. MEATHRossfree Curran Peter, Rossmeen, Kells, Co. Meath. 087-2700226Footstown Meade Oliver, Footstown, Drumconrath, Navan, Co. Meath. 046-9053115, 085-1218485Coverfield O'Halloran Terence, Horistown, Rathkenny, Navan, Co. Meath.046-9053171, 087-2745965.Cabinhill O'Neill Brian, Pullwee Street, Ratoath, Co. Meath. 01-8256791, 085-1508883Knockwood Royal Victory Gerard & Clare,Woodlawn, Colgath, Kilcock, Co. Meath.01-6519436, 087-7614565

CO. MONAGHANCooltrim Lennon Seamus, Cooltrim, Latton, Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan. 042-9741644,086-3874046Fane Woods Fergal, Blackstaff, Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan. 042-9378794, 087-2871108

CO. OFFALYEndrimhill Anderson Joseph, Endrim, Ferbane, Co. Offaly. 0906-454596Knockarley Conway Joseph, Knockarley, Clareen, Birr, Co. Offaly. 087-1245739Ballyboy Kilmartin Michael, Ballyboy, Kilcormac, Birr, Co. Offaly.057-9135167, 086-8116239Clondelara McDermott Tony, Clondelara, Shannonbridge, Co. Offaly.0906-481435, 087-2592303Kylebrook O'Brien John, Kylenamuck, Carrig, Birr, Co. Offaly. 057-9125426, 086-2100426

CO. ROSCOMMONMeeltrane Cummins Gerry, Meeltrane, Cloonfad, Co. Roscommon. 094-9646319, 086-8354226Clooneenhartland Dowd Colin, Clooneenhartland, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. 071-9633205, 087-9340107Killeglan Farrell Tim,Taughmaconnell, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon. 086-8144543Driminagh Flanagan Eugene, Driminagh, Loughlynn, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. 094-9880424,086-8764466Vern Harrington Frank, Ballinafad House, Strokestown, Co. Roscommon. 086-8867525Tully Higgins Michael, Main Street, Castlerea, Co. Roscommon. 094 - 9620973Ros Maher Seamus, Slevinagee, Roscommon, Co. Roscommon. 087-8115484Ardcarn Murray Joseph,Ardcarn, Ballinasloe, Co. Roscommon.0909-643584, 086-8100081

CO. SLIGOBallrea Cahill Michael, Ballyara,Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo. 071-9185180, 087-2822842Kilfree Hannon Paul, Kilfree, Gurteen, Co. Sligo. 071-9182485, 086-1530184Sligo Hunt Bernard, Lisbaleely, Gurteen, Co. Sligo. 071 - 9182739, 086-8102986Ballynaraw Doddy Colm, Ballynaraw South, Bunnanadden, Ballymote, Co. Sligo. 071-9189000, 087-3175227Carrentubber Kirrane David, Carrentubber,Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo. 071-9120686, 087-6219827Redhill McKeon Joseph, Mullaghroe, Gurteen, Co. Sligo.071-9182875, 086-1715048Moygara McKeon M & D, Moygara, Gurteen, Co. Sligo. 071 - 9182107, 086-8858052Townalion Moore Sarah,Townalion, Calfadda, Ballymote, Co. Sligo. 087-9115405Cuilmore Phillips Gerard, Cuilmore, Gurteen, Co. Sligo. 087-2224528Drumfin Scanlon Jerome, Carrickbanagher, Drumfin, Co. Sligo. 085-1741727

CO. TIPPERARYGoldenvale Butler JohnV, Deerpark, Shronell, Lattin, Co.Tipperary. 062-55285, 086-8729322Glenacunna Carey Kevin, Glenacunna, Ballyporeen, Co.Tipperary. 058-50555, 086-1080282Glenard Gillespie Clive & Meryl, Glenard House, Cloughjordan, Co.Tipperary. 0505 - 42245Springpark Harding Robert, Springpark, Borrisokane, Co.Tipperary. 067-27393, 086-0698860Dangan Hodgins Richard, Dangan, Clonakenny, Roscrea, Co.Tipperary. 0505-43242Ballycommon Keating Martina, Ballycommon, Nenagh, Co.Tipperary. 086-6065868Fawnagowan MaGuire John, 6 St. Michaels Street,Tipperary Town, Co.Tipperary. 087-2354128Rock House Maher Gearoid (Matthew), Gortnahoe,Thurles, Co.Tipperary. 056-8834157, 086-3444452.Sycamore McGrath William,The Bridge, Lower Ballingarry,Thurles, Co.Tipperary. 052-9154593Tipperary Ryan Eamon, Lacken Farm, Drombane,Thurles, Co.Tipperary. 0504-54341Glassdrum Ryan James, Lower Glassdrum, Cappawhite,Tipperary. 087-6359128Multeen Ryan Kevin, Reafadda, Hollyford, Co.Tipperary.062-77171, 087-2309755Parkstown Shanahan Michael, Ballydavid, Littleton,Thurles, Co.Tipperary. 0504-44150, 086-3874506

CO. WATERFORDCuan Crowley Tadgh, Ballydwan West, Stradbally, Co.Waterford. 051-292354, 087-2306841

CO. WESTMEATHLunestown Clarke David, Lunestown Hse, Loughnavalley, Mullingar, Co.Westmeath. 044-9356200, 087-2576434Larkenstown Lynn Liam.A.M, Lakenstown, Ballynacargy, Co.Westmeath. 044-9362671, 087-2695594Belfield Stanley John E, Rahugh, Kilbeggan, Co.Westmeath. 086-3773181Silver River WilliamsYvonne, Rahugh, Kilbeggan, Co.Westmeath. 044-9223169

CO. WEXFORDKnottown Fortune Joseph & Richard, Knottown,Wexford, Co.Wexford. 053 - 9123396, 087-2774172Dúnanóir Kirwan Stephen Michael, Donanore, Enniscorthy, Co.Wexford. 086-2356433Skylana Whelan Laurence, Boolabeg, Ballindaggin, Enniscorthy, Co.Wexford.053-9388958, 086-6021690.

CO. WICKLOWKilmacurra Greene David, Kilmacurra, Kilbride, Co.Wicklow. 087-1250270Wicklow Mason James, Ballymerrigan Hill, Rathnew, Co.Wicklow. 0404 - 68647

NORTHERN IRELANDDrumlegagh Elliot John, 11 Lough Road, Newtownstewart, Co.Tyrone. N. Ireland BT784HH, 028-81661654

Associate MemberO'Connell Joseph, Moy, Lahinch, Co. Clare 065-7081257Staunton James, ScenicView, Snugboro, Castlebar, Co. Mayo.094-9021303, 087-9682073


AVISIT TO THE AUVERGNE

A recent visit to the Salers Bull Test Station and farms

in Central France by a group of Irish andWelsh breeders,

including Richard Fortune (Wexford) purchaser of a bull,

Henri, illustrated the emphasis placed on maternal

selection in France and the predominance of carefully

bred commercial pure-bred stock. We are currently

producing around 860,000 calves a year from over a

million sucklers, a significant under-performance

compared to France.The average here is 0.85 per cow,

0.78 if heifers are included,with the bottom 15% at 0.69.

The financial shortfall through the system must be

around 200 million euros, who knows. Productivity has

fallen over recent years. It is notable that while the latest

ICBF figures show that Irish Terminal Trait Indices have

risen from €33.7 to €55.7 between 2000 and 2012

Maternal Indices fell from €107.5 to €88.1. French cattle

(and sheep) are more productive by a crucial 10-15%.

SALERS BULL TEST STATION SELECTION CRITERIA

Parents performance is fundamental for selection but

particular attention is paid to the maternal (and paternal

grandmother) reproductive performance. Thus the

calving interval of the 41 mothers of the February intake

we saw was 361 days for an average of 4 calvings. The 7

mothers with 7 or more calvings were at 362 days. In

the second ,April, series (57 total) the 18 mothers with

7 or more calvings are at 366 days. In Ireland the average

suckler calving interval is 396 days with the bottom 15%

at 433 days, both indicative of the fertility problems and

lack of selection for maternal traits. Alait, the dams

milking ability, and IVMat the overall maternal

performance loom large in selection for admission, thus

averaged 103-104 for Alait and 105-106 for IVMat this

year. French buyers pay close attention to these indices

and see them as fundamental in the retention of the

breeds excellent milk capacity. Suckled Salers, or their

mothers, are very rarely meal fed in France. In general in

most breeds in Ireland the traditional heavy concentrate

feeding in the “Pedigree” herds supplying bulls partially

disguises lack of maternal milk although Grange results

have clearly shown how crucial maternal milk yields are

and that weaning weight advantages gained at this stage

are still evident at finishing.

COW FERTILITY AND CALVING EASE

While the causes of low calf numbers in Ireland are no

doubt multifactorial “low fertility” looms large.Too many

cows are irregular breeders. Calving problems

contribute to this. In general as muscularity and growth

rate increases calf birth weight rises and in the absence

of a corresponding increase in pelvic aperture calving

problems will appear. There is a striking “threshold

effect” after which problems increase dramatically. One

in five Irish Suckler cows need some help at calving. The

core Salers value of easy-calving is of course related to

the relatively low birth weight of Salers calves and to

the larger maternal pelvic opening.These are maintained

by selection and the key indices for this are prominent

in the Sale Catalogue. The Calving Ease index (IFNais)

is basically calf birth weight (80% of the index).The lower

the birth weight the higher the index. But equally

important the comparative internal pelvic dimensions of

the bulls on Test are measured and the internal pelvic

height (HSP) and internal pelvic width (BIM) are

presented, these are combined to constitute a pelvic

index (OP).There is evidence that external trocanter

width measured is also indicative,whereas the hip width

and pin bone widths which are also presented are

unrelated to the relative size of the pelvic aperture.

Richard Fortunes Bull, Henri, had an internal pelvic

height index of 111 and an internal width index of 105

(overall OP 110). This coupled to an external trocanter

width index of 110 puts him into the top 16-17% of the

population. Dystocia clearly affects calf mortality. An

average of 5% were lost at this time in Ireland in 2012

(8.3% in the bottom 15% herds), but it also has

implications for subsequent cow fertility and longevity.

These are very relevant to production and profits.The

internal pelvic assessments and calf size indices are

crucial in Salers since easy calving is dependent upon

these factors. But all the bull’s characteristics are

presented in an easy to interpret diagrammatic format

and it would not be difficult to choose a bull simply by

consulting the Catalogue. Faults are certainly evident, eg

leg (Aplombs) problems.

FOCUS ON THE FEMALE


TEST STATION AIMS

A composite index (IMOCR) in the Sale Catalogue

provides the key summary of the bull in theTest. It takes

into account mainly growth (CR)(36.9%), conformation

(DM)(21.6%) and very notably internal pelvic size

(OP)(22.6%).Henri had an index of 112 which again puts

him into the top 16% of bulls. However it is important

to realize that the feed regime at the Station is designed

to measure a bulls ability to use roughage not

concentrates.This is in common with other breeds in

France, eg Aubracs.They are fed quality hay ad lib, but

limited to only 4kg of meal per day, in the 16 week

“intensive phase”.This contrasts with Tully were they

were fed meal ad lib and consumed some 11-12-13kg

per day. They were fit but not fat, certainly not in the

Show Condition of most bulls sold in Ireland, and were

ready to go to cows immediately with little in the way

of fertility problems, laminitis or the typical melt-down

of the Irish Show-fed animal. Teagasc estimates some

30% of Irish bulls are sub-fertile and recommend a

“slimming-down” phase before usage.The ability to grow

well on roughages, that is grass, silage or hay is becoming

crucial as meal prices increase and in any event grass is

our main asset. The roughage based Salers Test feed

regime is thus designed to assess the Salers ruminal

ability/capacity to power growth.

THE FARM SITUATION

The group visited a number of farms in the area

including the GAEC Dufayet, the breeders of Henri.The

evenness of the herd was noted, as with other farms

visited. French cattle are “pedigrees” in our terms, ie

pure-breds, but they are run as commercial herds not

“Show cattle” hence the very strong emphasis on

selection for commercially relevant maternal traits such

as pelvic aperture,milk and fertility on which production

depends.The GAEC had produced 127 calves from 130

cows, an average of 0.98 per cow. The herd calving

interval was 372 days. Sale of breeding females would

be more important than bulls. The 51,264 recorded

Salers cows (25% of total) produced 49,174 calves, 0.96

per cow, with a calving interval of < 375 days. Some

farms exceed 1 calf per cow since twins are not unusual.

French breeds (cattle and sheep) are generally are more

productive and French breeders are surprised at our

appetite for cross-breeding, they think it introduces

unpredictability, particularly the multiple cross-breeding.

In Normandie where there are a few cross-bred

sucklers (28,000),mainly Charolais or Limousin (or even

Belgian Blue) x Normande or Holstein their

performance is notably poorer than the local Salers, thus

calf losses are 13% v. 3%.

Unsurprisingly in view of the commercial assets of the

breed in France the Bull Sale was a success with all bulls

on offer sold at an average price of €3,523.

Professor Jim Mason

Gort Co-Operative Livestock Mart LtdBallybawn, Gort, Co Galway. 091 631204

[email protected] 2007, Gort Mart teamed up with the Irish Salers Society and commenced holding cross bred sales of incalf, maidenand weanling heifers. Buyers attended from all around the country including Northern Ireland.

With many salers breeders in Clare, Limerick, Galway, Kerry,Tipperary, Gort Mart is ideally situated as many buyersattend from Dublin and border counties. Gort is quite accessible to all these buyers.

Customers who buy salers come back year after year to buy.They seem to be happy with these salers animals.They arebred to Limousine, Charolais and Belgian Blue bulls and produce top quality continental cross weanlings suitable forexport.

Customers generally tell us that they are easy calving and easy to carry over the winter. Farmers who are out-winteringstill on the Burren and similar areas say that they are ideal for out-wintering.This year, the sale will be held on Thursday23rd October, 2014. Entry forms available.

Gerry Finnerty


SSAALLEERRSS - THE BREEDSalers (pronounced sall-airs and alway spelt Salers) were thenative cattle of the Auvergne, a mountainous plateau of SouthCentral France. Since altitudes rise from 2,500 to 6,000 ft.the weather is variable and harsh with a high rainfall and heavysnow. Not surprisingly the breed is hardy and the Salersmahogany coat is thick and weather resistant.

Salers are one of the oldest distinct breeds in the worldperhaps going back directly to the early settlement of the areaby Neolithic stockbreeder farmers some 9,500-4,500 yearsago. The isolated nature of the Salers original habitat lent itselfto a high degree of genetic fixation. Thus, I believe that, incontrast to most British breeds which often trace back toone cow or bull, Salers arose from a large indigenouspopulation. As a consequence there is a wide genetic base andgood diversity within the breed to select for whatevercharacteristic might be appropriate, size, milk, conformation,etc. Most successful breeding is based on distinct lines withinthe breed, Brousse, Calvet, Chevalier, for example andbreeders should be aware of these bloodlines when choosingbulls. Some Durham Shorthorns were imported into theAuvergne in the mid 19th century to “improve” the breed.However this was challenged by a local agriculturalist,Tyssandier d’Escous, and he promoted improvement byselection from within the native stock. His statue stands inthe middle of the picturesque medieval village of Salers fromwhich the breed derives its name. Genetic analysis shows thatthe effect of the importation was negligable, in fact it revealed400 times more Shorthorn blood in Charolais than Salers. Italso reveals a good genetic distance of Salers from most otherbreeds which explains the strong hybrid effect (heterosis)generally observed when Salers are used for crossing.On most breeds the key Salers characteristics, that is low

calf birth weight and impressive pelvic structure, are ratherdominant.

Originally milk cattle, but since the Auvergne was too remoteto supply a liquid milk market the Salers milk was convertedto cheese, Salers and Cantal for example, particularily whenthe stockmen and their cattle moved to the high summergrazing (the estive). This historic cheese and weanling systemstill exists and Salers cheese can only be made legally betweenthe April 15th and Sept 15th . However while highly lucrativethe system is labour intensive, not least because milk let downis poor without a few preliminary sucks and the presence ofthe calf (attached to the front left leg) during milking. Thereare now only 5,000 cows in the milk herds in Auvergne butmost French breeders consider preservation of this nucleusimportant to retain the breeds milking ability. Most farmersin France now use their Salers in pure suckler systems; inAuvergne with extensive usage of high estive mountainpastures. With a large frame, mature cows weigh 650-900kg;milking ability, in France calves rarely receive meal, and withcalving ability and good conformation the Salers is theultimate suckler cow. Milk production, generally around 7 butup to 9kg/day, is good, some 20% better than French Charolaisand 40% better than Limousins. Crucially the thrifty Salerscows are capable of maintaining good milk yields even onpoor quality feeds and respond well by increasing yields whenswitched to good grass. Fertility remains good even underpoor winter feed regimes and the breed shows an impressive“concertina” effect, that is a very rapid regain of condition atgrass in Spring.

These good maternal qualities are the basis of its currentworld-wide distribution, for example North America whereits calving ease, fertility, hardiness, and notable longevity plusthe ability to forage widely make it a good ranching breed. InFrance the breed has expanded well outside its Auvergneheartland, along the German border for example, as well as inNormandy and Brittany. There are currently about 210,000cows and 98,000 pure-bred heifers in France with around49,000 Salers cattle performance recorded and thusparticipating in the selection program. The commercialsuccess of Salers cows is due at least in part to a high coarseforage intake capability. For example direct comparison withLimousins in France showed intakes of 11.7 versus 8.9kg /dayin the 8th month of gestation and 14.4 versus 11.9kg in the2nd month of lactation. Interestingly the Salers spent less timegrazing but took bigger and more frequent bites. Does thismean they can devote more time to rumination ? Overall theSalers rumen capacity is about 15% larger than Limousins.Ability to use coarse forage well means less use ofconcentrates which means less costs.

All comparative studies of calving ease invariably rank Salersnumber one. The flat square, box-like pelvis of well bred Salerscows is very noticeable and the internal dimensions, thepelvic aperture, are some 25-40 sq cms bigger than otherbreeds. All bulls passing through the Salers Bull Test Station,intake some 200/year, are carefully measured internally. Thelarge pelvic aperture, plus the low calf weight at birth, 38kg orless, ensures calving ease and Salers cows are rarely assisted,or even observed calving with subsequent positiveconsequences for fertility and longevity. In France many Salersheifers are sold, in calf to a Salers, to lowland farmers forsubsequent terminal crossing with a very heavy muscleCharolais; which poses few problems. These weanling bullcalves sell at much the same price as pure-bred Charolais,however heifers of this cross are not retained for breedingand are consequently worth less than the pure-bred Salers. Inthe Auvergne heartland most purebred (90%) (and cross-bred calves) are exported to Italy but elsewhere the Salersbulls are generally fattened locally. In France, as in Ireland, at18 months there is little if any difference in value betweenCharolais cross and pure Salers carcases and since pure Salersheifers are valuable as sucklers, there is little incentive tocross-breed.

Salers beef quality is very good, well marbled, with little of theexcessive surface carcase fat seen in British breeds. TheAuvergne has historically been a region of high emigrationand the Auvergnats who went to Paris traditionally openedbars and restaurants. Many specifically have Salers beef onthe menu and there is a profitable and expanding Salers beeflabel. In France, as we are beginning to see in Ireland, top-linemeat is more important than back-end and a priority of theextensive recording/selection system involving 1,368 herds isto thicken back muscle while retaining length and maintainingthe key maternal qualities. It is particularily difficult toimprove back muscle without losing size and thus growthrate.

Further reading of this journal will show the breed isexpanding rapidly in Ireland and will provide details ofperformance here.

James Mason

Breffni SalersLATASTER IVAN(5 star ZLA)At 22 months old, Lataster Ivan, was giventhe nod for Beef Expo Ireland 2010Overall Salers Champion for his stylishcommanding of the show ring in Kilkenny,amongst the cream of Ireland’s PedigreeBreeding at Beef Expo. His pedigree isoutstanding. His sire Muguet is known andused by a number of elite breeders inFrance. He is currently the stock bull forBreffni Salers. A.I straws are currentlyavailable from NCBC ProgressiveGenetics/Munster A.I. NCBC have alsoranked him top bull of all breeds formaternal traits 2014.

Breffni Muzz (ZBZ)Stylish bull with good muscle and top line. Oneof the 4irst Salers bulls to be bought in the GeneIreland Programme, he has lots of milk in hisbloodline. A.I straws available from Gene IrelandA.I. Bulls. (045)521573.

STO C K S I R E

Breffni Salers was established in 2009, star�ng with 6 heifers purchased from the Corlurgan Salers herd .Since then Breffni Salers has grown in strength and numbers by purchasing many top bloodlines fromthe Corlurgan Salers herd including, Tamise,Timide,Vosges and many more. Recently we have importedtop bloodlines from France including daughters from bulls such asUblo,Charlemagn,Ulsan,Serment,Ulysse and Apollon to name a few.

Visitors always welcome,

Breeder: Fernand Crowe,Carrickabawn, Ballinagh,

Co Cavan. (087) 2274296



NATIONAL SALERS COW CHAMPIONThe Brian Halton Memorial Cup

(Presented to the winner of The National Salers Cow Champion by the Halton family)

Bernard Hunt owner of “Devine” winner of The National Salers Cow Champion 2013.

John Burke owner of “Manusmore Harmony” winner of The National Salers Cow Champion 2012.


MMMM OOOO YYYY GGGG AAAA RRRR AAAA SSSS AAAA LLLL EEEE RRRR SSSSe foundation animals of our herd (Est.1994) were personally selected

daughters of High Index Cows from the Top French Herds.

By careful usage of semen from the Top French and UKbulls we now have a herd of deeply fleshed, mediumframed cattle with a large pelvis and excellent udders.This Gitan daughter is a typical example.

HARESTONE GENERALCongratulations to Neil Barclay, Banchory, Aberdeen. Hisbull Harestone General was Reserve Overall Championand Reserve Male Champion at Salers Society Sale atCastle Douglas, Autumn 2013 and was subsequently soldfor joint top price at the sale, £6,000gns. HarestoneGeneral has three generations of Moygara breeding on hisdame side.

A recent addition from prizewinning Cleuchead Herd inScotland. Junior Champion Salers Society Sale in CastleDouglas.

Contact:

Michael 071 – 9182107, 086 – 8858052 Dan 087 - 7951232Email: [email protected] Website:www.moygara.com

BULLS FOR SALE EACH SPRING. GENE IRELAND PARTICIPANT HERD.


BETA - MANNOSIDOSISNOT A PROBLEM IF WE DON’T MAKE IT ONE.

Somewhere between 2 and 7% of Salers cattle in France carry a copy of a defective mutated gene, the Beta-mannosidosisgene(n).However since bovine cells are diploid, that is two copies (alleles), one of paternal origin one of maternal origin, are present thesecattle are symptom less, in fact perfectly normal, since the other copy or allele (N) is functional. The defective mutated gene isin this case said to be recessive to the allele which is normal. Problems can arise only if a carrier (Nn) is bred to another carrier (Nn). The normal inheritance of the genes, that is whereeach parent passes on only one of its two genes, either n or N in this case, implies that 25% of the calves are likely to be non-carriers (homozygous NN), 50% symptomless carriers (heterozygous Nn), but 25% are likely to inherit a defective gene(n) fromeach parent, that is to be nn. This is lethal. The calves of this nn genotypes are born somewhat deformed, unable to suck, anddie rapidly. This is Beta-mannosidosis.To avoid contamination of the foundation stocks the International Salers Federation strongly recommends that importation isaccompanied by proof that the animal is not a carrier. To date the Canadian, American, New Zealand, Australian, British and IrishSocieties apply this strictly. Cattle cannot be registered with the Society unless shown to be free from the mutated gene, byDNA testing or to be from non-carrier parents. It follows therefore that all cattle registered by the Irish Salers Society are noncarriers.

What should you do to avoid even the very low possibility of a calf loss?Firstly, if you buy imported cattle these should be tested before leaving France. Secondly, use only Society registered bulls sincethis avoids any possibility of the lethal nn, Beta-mannosidosis combination, although there is a 50% possibility that a carrier cowwill produce a carrier calf. Usage of a carrier “scrub” bull would of course be more serious since 50% of his progeny would becarriers. Irish pedigree registered heifers are by definition non-carriers and cross bred commercial heifers bred from Irishpedigree registered bulls are also free. These simple measures, taken at this stage when the foundation stock is being laid down,means that there will not be a problem.

James Mason.


SHOW RESULTS ....ATHLONE SHOW 2012Senior Cow in calf or with calf at foot1. Manusmore Harmony owned by John Burke2. Corlurgan Hide owned by Fernand Crowe3. Sligo Freda owned by Bernard Hunt

Senior Heifer1. ClewBay Jill owned by Thomas McGreal2. Laois Kate owned by Tom Fitzpatrick3. Carrickabawn June owned by Fernand Crowe

Junior Heifer1. Clew Bay Kate owned by Declan Bell2. Manusmore Kim owned by John Burke3. Sligo Lucy owned by Bernard Hunt

Male Calf Class1. Manusmore Lord owned by John Burke2. Manusmore Limited Edition owned by John

Burke3. ClewBay Lambaro owned by Thomas

McGreal

ChampionClew Bay Kate owned by Declan Bell

Reserve Clew Bay Jill owned by Thomas Mc Greal

Bailieborough Show 2012Senior Cow in calf or with calf at foot1. Manusmore Harmony owned by John Burke2. Corlurgan Hide owned by Fernand Crowe3. Sligo Freda owned by Bernard Hunt

Senior Heifer1. Fanette owned by Gerry Phillips2. Carrickabawn June owned by Fernand Crowe3. Laois Kate owned by Tommy Fitzpatrick

Junior Heifer1. Clew Bay Kate owned by Declan Bell2. Manusmore Kim owned by John Burke3. Sligo Lucy owned by Bernard Hunt

Male/Female Calf Class1. Rathlacken Lewis owned by Patrick Williams2. Sligo Lily owned by Bernard Hunt3. Manusmore Limited Edition owned by John

Burke

Champion: Clew Bay Kate owned by Declan Bell,Ballyvonnavaun, Clarecastle, Co. Clare

Reserve Champion:Manusmore Harmony owned by John Burke,Manusmore, Clarecastle, Co.Clare

CAPPAMORE SHOW2012COW CLASS 1. Manusmore Harmony owned by John Burke2. Corlurgan Hide owned by Fernand Crowe3. Laois Gina owned by Tom Fitzpatrick

Senior Heifer 1. Laois Kate owned by Tom Fitzpatrick2. Corlurgan Jessica owned by Fernand Crowe3. Clew Bay Jill owned by Tom McGreal

Junior Heifer 1. Manusmore Kim owned by John Burke2. Ashbury Just Perfect owned by Thomas

Mulcahy

Male Calf Class 1. Manusmore Limited Edition owned John

Burke2. Manusmore Lord owned John Burke3.

Female Calf Class 1. Manusmore Limelight owned by John Burke2. Glenmore Lorina owned by Thomas Mulcahy

Overall Salers Champion Manusmore Harmony owned by John Burke

ELPHIN SHOW 2012Senior Cow in calf or with calf at foot1. Manusmore Harmony owned by John Burke2. Sligo Freda owned by Bernard Hunt

Salers Heifer1. Sligo Jill owned by Bernard Hunt2. Manusmore Kim owned by John Burke,3. Fanette owned by Gerry Phillips

Male/Female Calf Class1. Manusmore Limited Edition owned by John

Burke2. Sligo Lily owned by Bernard Hunt3. Ros Lupus owned by Seamus Maher

Champion: Sligo Jill owned by Bernard Hunt

Clew Bay Kate Salers Champion at Cappamore show 2013 with ownerDeclan Bell

Glenmore Lorina Reserve Champion at Cappamore show 2013 withowner Thomas Mulcahy

Manusmore Melba 1st Female calf at Tullamore Show 2013 with ownerJohn Burke and Hari Pritchard Judge.

Overall Champion Divine at Tullamore 2013 owned by Bernard Hunt,Sligo Salers.


Reserve Champion: Manusmore Harmony owned by John Burke

OSSORY SHOW 2012Senior Cow in calf or with calf at foot1. Sligo Freda owned by Bernard Hunt2. Manusmore Harmony owned by John Burke3. Corlurgan Hide owned by Fernand Crowe

Senior Heifer1. Laois Kate owned by Tom Fitzpatrick 2. Ashbury Just Perfect owned by Tom Mulcahy3. Carrickabawn June owned by FernandCrowe

Junior Heifer1. Manusmore Kim owned by John Burke2. Clew Bay Kate owned by Declan Bell3. Sligo lucy owned by Bernard Hunt

Male Calf Class1. Manusmore Limited Edition owned by John

Burke2. Sligo Lambert owned by Bernard Hunt

Female Calf Class1. Sligo Majesty owned by Bernard Hunt2. Sligo Lily owned by Bernard Hunt3. Manusmore Limelight owned by John Burke

Champion: Manusmore Kim owned by John Burke,Manusmore, Clarecastle, Co.Clare

Reserve: Sligo Freda owned by Bernard Hunt, Lisabaleely,Gurteen, Co.Sligo

TULLAMORE SHOW2012Senior Cow in calf or with calf at foot 1. Sligo Freda owned by Bernard Hunt2. Corlurgan Hide owned by Fernand Crowe3. Manusmore Harmony owned by John Burke

Junior Cow 1. Edith owned by Tom Mulcahy

Senior Heifer 1. Ema owned by Michael & Kathleen Ward2. Carrickabawn June owned by Fernand

Crowe3. Sligo Jill owned by Bernard Hunt

Junior Heifer 1. Manusmore Kim owned by John Burke2. Clew Bay Kate owned by Declan Bell3. Sligo Lucy owned by Bernard Hunt

Pedigree Salers Bull any age 1. Drageur owned by Michael & Kathleen Ward2. Lataster Ivan owned by Fernand Crowe

Male Calf Class – 1. Rathlacken Lewis owned Patrick Williams2. Sligo Lambert owned by Bernard Hunt3. Manusmore Limited Edition owned by John

Burke

Female Calf Class 1. Sligo Lilly owned by Bernard Hunt2. Connemara Laoise owned by John O’Malley

Best Pair of Animals 1. Corlurgan Hide & Corlurgan Jessica owned

by Fernand Crowe2. Manusmore Harmony & Manusmore Kim

owned by John Burke

3. Sligo Lucy & Sligo Freda owned by BernardHunt

Overall Salers Champion Sligo Freda owned by Bernard Hunt

Reserve Salers Champion Drageur owned by Michael & Kathleen Ward

VIRGINIA SHOW 2012Senior Cow in calf or with calf at foot1. Manusmore Harmony owned by John Burke2. Sligo Freda owned by Bernard Hunt3. Corlurgan Hide owned by Fernand Crowe

Senior Heifer1. Corlurgan Jessica owned by Fernand Crowe2. Carrickabawn June owned by Fernand

Crowe3. Fadette owned by Gerry Phillips

Junior Heifer1. Manusmore Kim owned by John Burke2. Sligo Lucy owned by Bernard Hunt

Male Calf Class1. Manusmore Limited Edition owned by John

Burke2. Sligo Lambert owned by Bernard Hunt

Female Calf Class1. Sligo Majesty owned by Bernard Hunt2. Aughalion Lucy owned by Paddy Clerkin

Champion: Manusmore Harmony owned by John Burke

Reserve Champion Corlurgan Jessica owned by Fernand Crowe,

Overall Salers Champion at Tullamore Show 2012, Sligo Freda owned byBernard Hunt.

Reserve Champion at Tullamore Show 2012, Drageur with ownerKathleen Ward

Keating Cup winner, Ashbury Just Perfect presented at Ballinasloe show2012 with owner Thomas Mulcahy.

Laois Mouse 1st in calf class at Cappamore Show 2013 with owner PatFitzpatrick.


VIRGINIA SHOW 2013Senior Cow in calf or with calf at foot 1. Divine owned by Bernard Hunt2. Beguine owned by Andrew Byrne3. Ecume owned by Andrew Byrne

Senior Heifer 1. Galilee owned by Andrew Byrne2. Fadette owned by Gerard Phillips

Junior Heifer 1. Sligo Lily owned by Bernard Hunt2. Hantise owned by Andrew Byrne

Male Calf Class 1. Sligo Nourazi

Overall Salers Champion Divine owned by Bernard Hunt

Reserve Salers Champion Galilee owned by Andrew Byrne

TULLAMORE SHOW2013Senior Cow in calf or with calf at foot 1. Divine owned by Bernard Hunt2. Beguine owned by Andrew Byrne3. Ecume owned by Andrew Byrne

Senior Heifer 1. Laois Kate owned by Tom Fitzpatrick2. Manusmore Kim owned by John Burke3. Clew Bay Kate owned by Declan Bell

Junior Heifer 1. Sligo Lily owned by Bernard Hunt

2. Manusmore Limelight owned by John Burke3. Hantise owned by Andrew Byrne

Male Calf Class 1. Sligo Nourazi owned by Bernard Hunt2. Laoise Mouse owned by Tom Fitzpatrick

Female Calf Class 1. Manusmore Melba owned by John Burke2. Laoise Minny owned by Tom Fitzpatrick3. Glenmore Nessa owned by Thomas Mulcahy

Best Pair of Animals 1. Divine & Sligo Lily owned by Bernard Hunt

Overall Salers Champion Divine owned by Bernard Hunt

Reserve Salers Champion Sligo Lily owned by Bernard Hunt

LIMERICK SHOW 2013Senior Cow in calf or with calf at foot 1. Ballymackeogh Hazel owned by John Keating2. Beguine owned by Andrew Byrne3. Edith owned by Thomas Mulcahy

Senior Heifer 1. Manusmore Kim owned by John Burke2. Galilee owned by Andrew Byrne3. Fadette owned by Gerard Phillips

Junior Heifer 1. Sligo Lily owned by Bernard Hunt2. Glenmore Lorina owned by Thomas Mulcahy3. Hantise owned by Andrew Byrne

Male or Female Calf Class 1. Manusmore Melba owned by John Burke

2. Sligo Nourazi owned by Bernard Hunt3. Glenmore Nicole owned by Thomas Mulcahy

Overall Salers Champion Ballymackeogh Hazel owned by John Keating

ATHLONE SHOW 2013Senior Cow in calf or with calf at foot 1.Ballymackeogh Hazel owned by John Keating2. Beguine owned by Andrew Byrne3. Divine owned by Bernard Hunt.

Senior Heifer 1. Clew Bay Kate owned by Declan Bell2. Manusmore Kim owned by John Burke3. Galilee owned by Andrew Byrne

Junior Heifer 1. Hantise owned by Andrew Byrne2. Sligo Lily owned by Bernard Hunt 3. Manusmore Limelight owned by John Burke

Male or Female Calf Class 1. Sligo Nourazi owned by Bernard Hunt2. Manusmore Melba owned by John Burke

Overall Salers Champion Ballymackeogh Hazel owned by John Keating

Reserve Salers Champion Clew Bay Kate owned by Declan Bell

BALLINASLOE SHOW2013Cow Class: 1. Ballymackeogh Hazel owned by John Keating2. Divine owned by Bernard Hunt

Salers Champion, Laois Kate at Athlone Show 2014 with Pat Fitzpatick Female Calf Champion Sligo Lily, Ballinasloe Show .Owned by BernardHunt.

Ballymackeogh HazelBallinasloe show 2013 - 1st in her class, interbreed champion Limerick show 2013- 1st in her class and champion

Athlone 2013 - Ballymackeogh Hazel 1st in her class and supremechampion


Reserve Champion & Keating Cup winner at Ballinasloe show 2013, ClewBay May owned by Tom McGreal

Bailieboro Show 2013Salers Cow “Devine” owned by Bernard Hunt won Interbreed Champion,Salers Champion and the Brian Halton Memorial Sash at Bailieboro Show 2013.

Hunts young handlers Ballinasloe 2013

Junior Heifer:1. Sligo Lucy owned by Bernard Hunt2. Glenmore Lorina owned by Thomas Mulcahy

Calf Class:1. Clew Bay May owned by Tom McGreal2. Glenmore Nicole owned by Thomas Mulcahy

Champion: Ballymackeogh Hazel owned by John Keating

Keating Cup: Clew Bay May owned by Tom McGreal

CAPPAMORE SHOW2013Senior Cow – No entry

Senior Heifer 1. Clew Bay Kate owned by Declan Bell2. Laois Kate owned by Tom Fitzpatrick

Junior Heifer 1. Glenmore Lorina owned by Thomas Mulcahy2. Manusmore Limelight owned by John Burke

Male or Female Calf Class 1. Laois Mouse owned by Tom Fitzpatrick2. Glenmore Nicole owned by Thomas Mulcahy3. Manusmore Melba owned by John Burke

Overall Salers Champion Clewbay Kate owned by Declan Bell

Reserve Salers Champion Glenmore Lorina owned by Thomas Mulcahy

__________________________________


RESULTS OF THE BULL CLASS 1st Prize: Sligo Muirse owned by Bernard Hunt 2nd Prize: Laois Martin owned by Tom Fitzpatrick 3rd Prize: Sligo Nourazie owned by Bernard Hunt

Clew Bay May owned by Tom McGreal Sligo Muirse owned by Bernard Hunt with Richard Hodgins new owner

All Ireland Salers National Calf Champion

RESULTS OF THE BULL CALF1st Prize: Clewbay Lambard owned by Tom McGreal 2nd Prize: Manusmore Limited Edition owned by John

Burke3rd Prize: Dunlo Lucas owned by Kathleen Ward

Calf Champion Female 2012 - Sligo Lily owned by Bernard Hunt Calf Champion Male 2012 - Clewbay Lambard owned by Tom McGreal

RESULTS OF THE HEIFER CALF1st Prize: Sligo Lily owned by Bernard Hunt 2nd Prize: Aughalion Lucy owned by Paddy Clerkin

3rd Prize: Glenmore Lorina owned by Tom Mulcahy

2013

2013

2013

2012

SHOWS

Athlone - June

Ossory/Rathdowney - July

Bonniconlon - August

Tullamore - August

Cappamore - August

Virginia - August

Ballinasloe - October

All Ireland Salers Calf Championship - held at the Salers Annual Pedigree Show and Sale,

October in Roscrea Mart.

NATIONAL PLOUGHINGCHAMPIONSHIPS3 x Days - September.

PEDIGREE SHOW AND SALERosrcea Mart - April & October

CROSS-BRED SALEGort, Co. Galway - October

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

RESULTS OF THE HEIFER CLASS 1st Prize: Clew Bay May owned by Tom McGreal 2nd Prize: Ashbury Mini owned by Alf Melvin

3rd Prize: Laois Minny Mouse owned by Tom Fitzpatrick


Salers Society Shows & Sales2012 October Show and Sale

Female Champion was Ashbury Lala owned by Alfred Melvin, Ashbury House, Mulhuddart, Dublin 15. Sired by Volcan (FR05) and Dam Uvea (Fr 05). Sold for €3,450.

Male Champion was Glenmore Leonidas owned by Thomas Mulcahy, Glenmore Strand, Co. Limerick. Sired by Lataster Eric(LZR) and Dam Corlurgan Gittle. Sold for €3,000.

Champion Female Ashbury Lala with Padraig Gallagher(judge) and Conor Melvin

Champion Male Glenmore Leonidas with Thomas Mulcahyand Padraig Gallagher (judge)

2013 October Show and Sale

The Salers Cattle Society held their Show and Sale in Roscrea Mart on Saturday 26th October 2013.Seamus Nagle, Doolin, Co. Clare won the Salers Champion Bull with Doonagore Major, sired by Jovial (JVL). The SalersFemale Champion was won by Thomas McGreal, Westport, Co. Mayo with Clew Bay May sired by Ballymackeogh Hugh(BHU).

Top price in the sale was the Champion Bull which sold for €5,000. and the Champion Female was unsold at €4,200.The top priced maiden heifer sold for €4,000. owned by Bernard Hunt, Sligo Salers, Lisbaleely, Gurteen, Co. Sligo.withSligo Lillian DOB 10/11/'11 out of Dam Venise(FR 04) and Ugolin (S1031).The reserve male was Clew Bay Lambard owned by Tom McGreal, Clew Bay Salers, Prospect, Westport, Co. Mayo. out ofDam Manusmore Investment and (LZR) which sold for €2,000.

A 100% clearance for the maiden heifers with the average price €2,600.00. with the top price €4,000.

Eight bulls sold out of thirteen entries and 90% of the weanling heifers sold.

The average for the bulls was €2,375 and the average for the Weanlings was €1,650.

Female Champion 2013, Clewbay May with owner TomMcGreal and Richard Fortune (judge)

Male Champion 2013, Doonagore Major with owner SeamusNagle


Salers Society Shows & Sales2014 SPRING SHOW AND SALE

The Salers Cattle Society held their Spring Show and Sale on Saturday 12th April 2014 in Roscrea Mart, Co. Tipperary.

Salers Champion Bull, “Carrentubber Norway”, owned by David Kirrane, Carrentubber Salers, Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo siredby Bronson (S1209), Dam Carrentubber Jodie. Born in March 2013, sold for €2,300.

Salers Champion Female “Ashbury Lollipop”, owned by Alfred Melvin, Ashbury Salers, Mulhuddart, Dublin with“AshburyLollipop”, sired by Volcan(FR 05) and Dam Silverfield Gail, an in-calf heifer, un-sold at €2,600.

Reserve Champion Bull, “Ashbury Mason”, sired by Volcan (FR 05), Dam Ume (FR 05) owned by Alfred Melvin, AshburySalers, Mulhuddart, Dublin, sold for €2,200.

Reserve Champion Female, “Sligo Mere”, sired by Django (S1285), Dam Sligo Kris owned by Bernard Hunt, Sligo Salers,Lisbaleely, Gurteen, Co. Sligo, sold for €2,300.

Top Price Bull sold for €2,600 “Ashbury Monarch”, born April 2012 owned by Alfred Melvin, Ashbury Salers, Mulhuddart,Dublin

Top Price Female sold for €2,400. “Sligo Mazzy”, born December 2012, owned by Bernard Hunt sired by Django (S1285),Dam Sligo Kune.

The Bulls average price €2,400. Heifers average price €1,908. and the weanlings average price €1,350.

2014 Show & Sale, Reserve Female Champion, Sligo Mere andNiall Hunt, Basil Bothwell (judge)

2014 Show & Sale, Reserve Male Champion, Ashbury Masonwith Connor Melvin, Basil Bothwell (judge)

2014 Show & Sale Female Champion, Ashbury Lollipop andConnor Melvin, Basil Bothwell (judge)

2014 Show & Sale Male Champion. Carrentubber Norway,owner David Kirrane.


Eamonn and Mary Holohan, along with their son Edward, runan organic suckler farm near Rathdowney, Co. Laois. Eamonnwas a dairy farmer originally, before becoming a suckler farmer,when in 2008 made the decision to join the Organic FarmingScheme, with fully organic status in 2010. They farm 110hectares, with over 100 cows at present heading to 150 cows,twelve springers (2 yr old) and ten weanlings fit for the bull(15mts old). They use three Salers Bulls, his first Salers bullbought in 2008.They used to keep their calves up to 10-12 mts old but nowunder a new organic scheme the calves are slaughtered atunder 8 months old, averaging 300 to 330kg liveweight andmake €3.00 a kilo liveweight. Supplying to Good HerdsmenOrganic Meats, in Cahir, Co. Tipperary.Eamonn believes that not having free access to fertilizer andconcentrates has helped focus their attention in making thefarm’s resources and livestock work harder. Grasslandmanagement has received a total overhaul, paddocks have beeninstalled in large fields and stock are grazed in rotational basiswith fresh grass given to animals every one to two days. Toppingis essential in maintaining high quality swards and minimisingweeds establishing, this is done every second rotation.The conversion to organics has reduced the fertilizer andconcentrate bill by an average of over €20,000 each year.In the winter the animals are housed in a bedding of straw andfed silage. He built a slatted feeding passage in front of thestraw bedded sheds, he finds diluted slurry excellent forgrowing grass in the spring time. They spread their own slurryand dung on grazing land and sludge from Avonmore on silageground.In 2012 the Holohan family won the Bord Bia Irish Food Board,“Sustainable Quality Beef Producer Awards 2012”. Suckler toWeanling/Store Category. Sponsored by Teagasc and the IrishFarmers Journal. They are very happy using Salers Bulls for their easy calvingand growth rate. Heifers are calved at two years old and theycalve all year round. Many thanks to the Holohan family for your hospitality andallowing me to visit your farm.Meryl Gillespie (Secretary)

Eamonn, Mary and Eddie Holohan, Barney Lane, Rathdowney, Co. Laois. Ph: 086 8860478.

ORGANIC BEEF FARMER USING THREE SALERS BULLS ……


BACKGROUND In 2012, ICBF completed a major review of its Gene Ireland progeny test program. This was driven by the deterioratingperformance of the national suckler herd for the important maternal traits – collectively known as ‘Milk & Fertility’. Oneof the key outcomes from the review was the need to increase the number of beef bulls being progeny tested on an annualbasis that have excellent genetic indexes for the maternal traits. By encouraging more emphasis on maternal traits inpedigree beef herds, ICBF hopes to reverse the worrying decline in desirable traits in the national suckler herd.

THE GENE IRELAND BEEF PROGENY TEST PROGRAM HAS 2 MAIN AIMS:

1. Identify Top Maternal Beef Bulls;By identifying pedigree females that excel in terms of their maternal performance (milk & fertility) through the ICBFdatabase – the program will encourage their owners to mate these females with certain sires that are also maternallystrong. The resulting bull calves will then be shortlisted for possible purchase by the Gene Ireland Program for semencollection.

A portion of this semen will be distributed into commercial herds with data being gathered on the resulting offspring(calving ease, liveweight, daily gain, calving interval etc). For Bulls whose progeny excel during the progeny test, particularlyin terms of their daughters performances – their semen will be targeted back into the pedigree herds of the pedigreebreeders that are participating in the Gene Ireland Maternal Bull Breeder Program.

2. To encourage more detailed and accurate data recording in pedigree herds.Pedigree herds that constantly record accurate data on their cattle will also be identified through this program by wayof the Bull Breeder Stamp being printed beside animals bred in their herd in Sales Catalogues and on the ICBF Bull Search.The level of transparency as regards record keeping will give commercial farmers purchasing stock from such herds anextra guarantee as regards the integrity of the data behind an animal’s €uro-Star figures

BULL BREEDER STAMPThe Gene Ireland Maternal Bull Breeder Stamp has been designed to identify pedigreeanimals that have been bred in herds that are signed up to the program and which havedemonstrated a very high level of data recording.

THE BENEFITS TO A COMMERCIAL PROGENY TEST HERDFor farmers that contact ICBF (1850 600 900 or 045-521573) and ordersemen from any of the bulls in Gene Ireland, they will receive the following benefits:

�� Access to the best new maternal beef bulls in Irish AI.�� Free weight recording of the bull's progeny that are born in their herd.�� Automatically satisfy Task 3B of BTAP.�� Potentially sell some of the progeny animals back to ICBF for performance testing

at the Tully Beef Test Centre.

THE BULLSYoung Beef Bulls are selected for inclusion in the program in 2 ways:

1. Irish Gene Ireland Maternal - Bull Breeder Herds

GENE IRELAND MATERNAL BULL BREEDER PROGRAM

Pat Donnellan (ICBF)


The Gene Ireland Program operates the following selection process for selecting bulls for progeny testing;

� Young pedigree beef bulls with high Replacement Index figures, that are born in the herds of participatingBreeders are identified by ICBF.

� Each breed has its own breed committee which decides on the criteria that bulls must meet before beingconsidered for purchase.

� Bulls that meet these criteria are then inspected by ICBF Linear Scorers and a report is written up onthe bull as regards his physical appearance.

� Those bulls that based on their Replacement Index, pedigree backround and physical appearance rankvery highly, are then purchased by Gene Ireland.

2. Irish AI CompaniesAI Company owned bulls that meet predefined criteria, equivalent to those set by the Gene Ireland breeding committees,are also included in this catalogue.

SALERS BULLS IN THE GENE IRELAND PROGRAM2 Salers Bulls were selected and purchased for progeny testing by ICBF through the Gene Irelandprogram (described above).

SALERS BULLS IN GENE IRELANDPROGRAMME.

Breffni Muzz A.I. Code: ZBZH.B.No: IE121255280404

Semen available from: Gene Ireland Programme 045-521573, 1850 600 900.

Sire: ECRING.S: VARIEGEOIS S827G.D: BALANCE

Dam: EXOTIQUE (FR 11)G.S: ULYSSEG.D: AGATHE

Knottown Michael A.I. Code KTMH.B.No: IE371214651332

Semen available from: Gene Ireland Programme 045-521573, 1850 600 900.

Sire: KNOTTOWN HERMESG.S: MORVAN (MRV)G.D: KNOTTOWN ENA

Dam: KNOTTOWN IRAG.S: BURON (FR 07)G.D: KILCO DAWN


Sires Used

LATASTER IVAN A.I.Code: ZLA

Semen available from: NCBC Progressive/ Munster A.I. Phone 046-9541333He won overall Salers Champion at Beef Expo Ireland 2010.

Sire: MUGUET (FR 07) G.S: FIDELG.D: GENTIANE

Dam: VERSAILLE (FR 05)G.S: GITANG.D: REGIANIE

BONAPARTE A.I. Code:PZBH.B. No: FR1526238768

Semen available from: NCBC Progressive/ Munster A.I. Phone 046-9541333A son of Ublo. Bonaparte is producing very feminine daughters and well shapedmuscular bulls.He is well proven in France.

Sire: UBLO G.S: ROBING.D: INES

Dam: ORGUEILLEG.S: JUNOTG.D: ESPAGNE

LATASTER ERIC A.I.Code:LZRH.B. No: IE121616940108

Semen available from: NCBC Progressive/ Munster A.I. Phone 046-9541333

Eric’s progeny are tall and long and have a good growth rate. He is producing verygood daughters in France.

Sire: THEG.S: PELERING.D: LITORNE

Dam: RACHELG.S: GITANG.D: OSIRIS

OURSON A.I. Code: OURH.B. No: FR1998004082


Breeding calves with heavy muscling . Ourson semen used in Canada, France, UK andIreland.

Sire: JUNIORG.S: FLEURONG.D: EMERAUDE

Dam: HOTESSEG.S: EVERESTG.D: AMOURETTE

RIO A.I. Code: RIOH.B. No: FR1520374586


Rio’s is very easy calving and produces good weanlings, however he should be usedon cows with milk

Sire: LANCELOTG.S: CESARG.D: MIRANDE

Dam: LAURENCEG.S: CESARG.D: HONGRIE


GAROU A.I. Code: GQZH.B. No. FR1531207988

Semen available from: BOVA A.I. PHONE 061-351233

This bull is son of the great bull Attila. He has a great pedigree.Lovely shaped calves and nice size

Sire: ATTILAG.S: SPLENDIDEG.D: TOURAINE

Dam: BATAILLEG.S: OLIVERG.D: ROYALE

Semen available from: BOVA A.I. PHONE 061-351233Vaillant was Paris champion in 2009 and was champion senior male of the year in theU.K. This bull has an excellent pedigree. Calves are small at birth but grow quicklyinto very well balanced cattle.

SIRE: ROMAING.S: HURLEURG.D: LIEGE

DAM: RITAG.S: MONTAGNARDG.D: MADAME

BALLYMACKEOGH LUCAS A.I. Code: KKBH.B. No: IE131068890304

Semen available from: Dovea Genetics Phone 0504-21755He comes from a very good line. His Dam has won Champion at many shows, and hisSire was well known. Very easy calving. Calves are showing excellent growth rate andstyle

Sire: JOVIALG.S: FLIPPEURG.D: SIERRA

Dam: BALLYMACKEOGH GLORIA (FR08)

G.S: OPERAG.D: RIQUITA (FR 02)

Ballymackeogh Hugh A.I. Code: BHUH.B. No: IE131068830249

Semen available from: Dovea Genetics Phone 0504-21755He comes from a good line of show cows. The first calves from this bull look to havegood shape.He comes from a good line of show cows. Daughters are very impressive. Excellent

Sire: ROMANG.S: NATIONG.D: JAMAIQUE

Dam: BALLYMACKEOGH ELSIEG.S: JULIENG.D: RIQUITA

NORMANDY A.I. Code:S270H.B. No: FR1497003208

Semen available from: Sligo A.I. 071 9118892

Proven maternal bull in Ireland and France. Will produce super breeding cows.

Sire: FANFANG.S: VERLAINEG.D: SECONDE

Dam: DISETTEG.S: UGOLING.D: HONGROISE

VAILLANT A.I. Code S849H.B. No: FR1931752282


WHITEBOG CONVENER A.I. Code S1128UK502146401580

Semen available from: Powerful Genetics PHONE 049-4367612Sexed Semen is also available from Whitebog Convener.He has exceptional width and depth of quarter, very long and correct on legs andfeet with real style about him.

Sire: LASCARG.S: INCASG.D: HERMINE

DAM: WHITEBOG ROSIEG.S: CUMBRIA FURYG.D: CUMBRIA DOT 2

BACARDI HERBIE A.I. Code: S2132H.B. No. UK564298400080

Semen available from: POWERFUL GENETICS. PHONE 049-4367612Sexed Semen is also available from Bacardi Herbie.His pedigree have milk. This bull gives exceptional width and incredible squareness.Big but seriously thick with a good head and excellent legs.

SIRE: CLEUCHHEAD YODAG.S: VALENTING.D: CLEUCHHEAD MAGALIE

3rd

DAM: CLEUCHHEAD DELILAH2nd

G.S: CLEUCHHEAD MIDNIGHTG.D: GLENGAVEL DELILAH

DRUMLEGAGH DENNIS A.I. Code DZJH.B.No : UK963659800107

Semen available from: EUROGENE A.I. SERVICES (Ireland) Ltd. Phone 049-4367612Dennis displays superb style & conformation. Suitable for Pedigree & Cross Breeding.Royalty Fee €40.00 on Pedigree Registrations.

SIRE: VOITOUG.S: ROMEOG.D: LILI

DAM: FANCHONG.S: POLDEAN RIORNG.D: POLDEAN RHONA

SIRE: UNOG.S: NAPOLEONG.D: JALOUSE

DAM: TAHITIG.S: PLANEZARDG.D: HOTESSE

SIRE: ALEZANG.S: TRESORG.D: LUZERNE

DAM: VERMEILLEG.S: PINOCCHIOG.D: PLOMBADE

Acajou A.I. Code S2157H.B. FR1525043778 (Gaec Missiel)

Semen available from: The Salers Cattle Society Of IrelandProduces large progeny with very good growth rate with above average muscle. Theyhave very good backs and pelvises with excellent feet and legs both front and back.His calves are reported to be remarkably docile. He should suit a wide rage of cowtypes.(Calving-98. Growth-115. Muscle-104. Skeletal-112.)

Doudou A.I. Code S1544H.B. No: FR6345807936 (Gaec Famille Champeix)

Semen available from: The Salers Cattle Society Of Ireland

This bull is producing very well muscled progeny with great growth rates. There isvery good milk on both sides of his pedigree. He should produce very stylish bullsand heifers. Very suitable for larger,plainer cows.(Calving-96. Growth-107. Muscle-111. Skeletal-107)


Beguin A.I. Code S1567H.B.No : FR1526045011 (Gaec Duval Claude Pere & Files)


This bull produces very tall and long progeny with average muscle. He also has goodmilk all through his pedigree. He should be used to improve size and breedreplacement heifers.(Calving-99. Growth-105. Muscle-101. Skeletal-119. Milk-118)

Onyx A.I. Code: ONNH.B.No: FR6327814141 (Ferrerol Michel)


Produces small muscular progeny. He is very easy calving and his heifers have verygood milk. Should only be used on large cows to improve muscle and milk.(Calving-103. Growth-97. Muscle-109. Skeletal-91. Milk-107)

Vanlooy A.I.Code: S1545H.B. No. FR1524137025

Semen available from: Salers Cattle Society of Ireland.From a long line of champions: Pacific and Mignon. This bull has great conformation.He gives his offspring a good skeletal development and good topline. He brings good maternal qualities and very good breed qualities.He gives his offspring a good skeletal development and good topline. (Calving ease-103. Growth-96. Muscle-93 Skeletal-107.)

Sire: PACIFICG.S: MIGNONG.D: LIMAGNE

Dam: ANGELIQUEG.S: MIGNONG.D: ARDAILLE

VARIEGEOIS A.I. Code: S827H.B. No: FR1525357583

Semen available from: The Salers Cattle Society Of IrelandHe has very good muscle and skeletal development figures from France. His progenyare long and thick with a very good top line. He should produce very goodreplacement heifers. He is average on weanling growth rate in France. He shouldproduce very good heifers.

Sire: TRAFALGARG.S: PIMPANTG.D: JALOUSE

Dam: SUPRISEG.S: MARBROUKG.D: OLYMPE

BRONSON A.I. Code: S1209H.B. No: FR7608321621

Semen available from: The Salers Cattle Society Of IrelandA bull from Oliver Roussel in the North of France. Bronson brings growth andmuscle. He also has a very good topline. His progeny have a lot of width and depth ofchest.

Sire: UNIVERSG.S: GITANG.D: : LILI

Dam: TOUTOUNEG.S: PASTEURG.D: GITANE

Sire: UNIONG.S: OUDINOTG.D: PICARDIE

Dam: SARLETTEG.S: MYSTEREG.D: LILI

Sire: MIROIR G.S: IMPERIALG.D: ENERVANTE

Dam: GIROLLEG.S: CAPG.D: COLOMBE


The ISF Tour was held in Ireland in August 2012. The tour started from Dublin, with Trudi the tour operator and Gerry the busdriver, driving to Northern Ireland for the first few days visiting farms owned by Andrew McClements, David Boyd, GeorgeMcCall and John Elliot. With loads of sightseeing, visiting The Ulster Folk Park, Giants Causeway, the Bushmills Distillery, amachinery manufaturer, a vegetable grower and a guided tour of Armagh and a barbeque.

In the South of Ireland the first farm visit was to Donegal, to James McGroartys farm in Ballintra. Then heading to Sligo with farmvisits to the farms of David Kirrane and Bernard Hunt. Taking in the sights of Yeats Grave and around Lough Gil. Ending the nightwith food, drink and a sing song in a local pub in Gurteen. The next day was a relaxing day touring on route to Galway, taking ina visit to Kylemore Abbey, and Connemara. Patsy O'Conghaile, with his two sons, met the bus on route and spoke about thecountryside of Connemara and Galway, and even spoke some Irish! That night I went with majority of the group into GalwayCity, where the streets were packed with tourists, we managed to get an enjoyable meal. The next day, it was on to the Cliffs ofMoher and on route to the farm of John Keating in Kilnaboy, Co. Clare. We got a talk on the plants growing wild on the Burren.We ended up having a fantastic nights entertainment in Dunguaire Castle. Ken Bain played wonderful music with his bagpipes,while we waited to go into the Banquet, where we were fed and entertained with Irish music, stories and poetry.

After shopping and sightseeing in Galway City, we went to Wards Farm in Ballinasloe. The French Breeders arrived after visitingthe farm of Alfred Melvin in Dublin on route from the airport to Wards farm. The French Breeders joined the tour and theafternoon was spent looking at cattle, vintage farm machinery and demonstrations of a vintage threshing, ending with a barbeque.

The next day it was off to a cattle mart in Roscrea, Co. Tipperary and a visit to Roscrea Castle, then back to Portlaoise, Co. Laoisfor the ISF Conference, where we had some very informative and interesting presentations from delegates from various countries.The elections and the talks about Salers Cattle and the importance of the ISF keeping everyone informed of whats happeningaround the world was discussed. After the conference we had a lovely meal in the hotel, joined by Irish breeders, which ran intothe early hours of the morning.

The last farm visit was in Wexford where on route sight seeing took place in Kilkenny city, then on to the farm of Joe andRichard Fortune, Wexford.

The final day was at Tullamore show, where a greatdisplay of Salers cattle were on show along withother cattle breeds. This is the largest agriculturalshow held annually in Ireland, set on 260 acres andattended by 60,000 people, so there’s something foreverybody. Judging for the Salers classes started at 10am, and refreshments were available in the Salersmarquee during the day, finally we had to say goodbyeto our friends whom we got to know over theprevious 12 days. We really enjoyed hosting the ISFConvention in Ireland and wish every success for thefuture.

Meryl Gillespie

REPORT OF INTERNATIONAL SALERS FEDERATION TOUR IN IRELAND…..


~ Congress Dinner ~


~ Threshing ISF TOUR ~


SALERS TICKING ALL THE RIGHT BOXES FOR TEAGASC BETTER FARMERS

Teagasc BETTER Farm participant Cork farmer Ger Dineen was looking to introduce a new breed into his 50 cow suckler herd.He works to get the most out of the grass on his farm as this is the cheapest way to rear a cow and calf on today’s modernfarm. Salers was his breed of choice after a long search.Ger runs a very tight system on his Calf to Beef farm 100% of his herd calves down in 6 weeks to A.I., so when he started toresearch a new breed he looked for*Easy calving*Good weight gainAnd when it came to breeding replacements he is looking for an average size cow with plenty of milk to rear a calf without theneed of costly meal feeding before weaning. The Salers large pelvic area and longevity means he is introducing low maintenancemilky cow into his herd.

Salers have been coming out on top for many years in the Maternal figures from I.C.B.F. Leading the way in Milk and Fertilityand also having the lowest calving difficulty figures, so Ger's next port of call was to contact the Salers society to find out all hecould about the breed here in Ireland. From here he was directed to some breeders in his area so that they could tell him firsthand how the breed is working for them. He was also given a list of A.I. Bulls available to farmers in Irish A.I. Stations and fromthe Society.

After the purchase of some Salers straws Ger started calving down his first Salers calves in Spring 2014 with little or no assistance.Ger intends killing these bulls at 13.5 Mths and keep his heifers as replacements. So far the breed has fitted in well on his farmwith Daily Weight Gain of the Salers progeny keeping up with the other calves on his farm.

This years move for Ger was a small step but he now intends using more Salers straws and has no worries so far that he is movingin the right direction in breeding a more profitable cow.

Ger Dineen is a farmer who likes to lead not follow trends

Gerard Dineen,Knockroe West, Kilnamartyra,Macroom, Co. Cork.087-2035669

SSAALLEERRSS

ALERS ARE A SUCKLER BREED THAT

RE EASILY MAINTAINED EVEN ON ROUGH

FORAGE, HAVE LOTS OF MILK AND A

ARGE PELVIS. THEY CALVE UNASSISTED

VEN WHEN CROSSED TO A HEAVILY

MUSCLED SIRE WHICH

EDUCES TIME AND LABOUR COSTS AT

CALVING AND ARE THE IDEAL

OLUTION TO PART-TIME AND

EXTENSIVE FARMERS NEEDS

salerscattlesocietyofirelandltd. 7theditionirishsalers.com/saler_doc_2014.pdf · salers 05...

Documents