ITBA North Leinster Region hosted a well-attended and informative Open Meeting in Mullingar Park Hotel last Thursday at which regional breeders' achievements were also acknowledged.
ITBA Chairman Cathy Grassick introduced the evening, which was the second in a series of planned Regional Evenings. The Chairman updated those on the ongoing work the ITBA is undertaking, a key priority being reigniting regional activity and committees together with enhancing the Associations communication. North Leinster Region Chair Gay Veitch encouraged breeders to put themselves forward for regional committees.
Attendees heard from Agricultural Adviser John Hardy, who discussed the welcome inclusion of the Equine Farming Sector in the Targeted Agricultural Modernisation Scheme (TAMS) and the grant options available for stud farms.
ITM's UK Market Manager Síle Hayes informed breeders of the success of the IRE Incentive Scheme to date while Head of Environment & Nutrition with the IEC, Alan Creighton discussed ongoing measures breeders should undertake to ensure farm hygiene and best practices on stud farms. The Irish Equine Centre also announced a Farm Hygiene Package Offer to ITBA members and details can be found on ITBA website or by contacting the IEC directly on 045-866 266. Pedigree Research Manager with Weatherbys, Michelle Fogarty talked breeders through the e-Passport concept.
Following the discussion regional chair Gay Veitch acknowledged regional breeders who bred black type/graded winners in 2021 and presented in excess of 30 Awards to attendees celebrating their recent success at home and abroad.