One of the many themes which will be addressed at Sheep 2025, the major free-to-attend sheep event taking place in Teagasc, Mellows Campus, Athenry, Co Galway, on Saturday 21 June 2025 concerns labour on sheep farms. With an ageing population of farmers there is an increasing reliance on part-time systems of production.

One of the greatest barriers reported with young farmers getting involved in sheep farming is time constraints. Teagasc is currently conducting a large scale survey on labour on sheep farms.

Sheep specialist Damian Costello explains that the aim of the survey is to identify some of the labour challenges, of which there are many, and what tasks demand the most time.

Facilities

The survey aims to quantify enterprise scale, intensity and production system while also exploring what facilities are available and their influence on labour.

“Previous studies have shown that efficient sheep farmers have really good handling facilities and this survey aims to identify areas for improvement that will make sheep farming a more labour efficient system.” The survey takes about 15 minutes to complete and can be completed online by scanning the QR code, through your local Teagasc office, or at the event. Interest from sheep handling manufacturers and suppliers in attending Sheep 2025 is building and the event will be an ideal opportunity for farmers to see the latest sheep handling equipment in the market.

Teagasc advisers specialising in sheep handling will also be in attendance to discuss yard design and top tips for efficient handling, while Sheep Ireland will discuss performance-recording opportunities for pedigree and commercial flocks.

Exhibitor bookings

The booking portal for exhibitors is now open. Exhibitors can book a stand at https://bit.ly/Sheep2025Exhibitors, while sheep breed societies hosting breed championships or having a breed display can book their stand at https://bit.ly/Sheep2025form. These links are also available at www.teagasc.ie/sheep2025.