Teagasc Pig Conference 2010
IRELAND - The upcoming Teagasc National Pig Conferences take place against a background of rising feed costs. Speaking in advance of the events, Michael Martin, Head of Teagasc Pig Development Units said: "Pig feed prices have increased by about €37 per tonne since June 2010. This equates to a 14 cent increase in feed cost per kg carcase weight. Unfortunately, pig prices have decreased by 7 cent per kg carcase weight since August 2010. Consequently, the margin over feed costs has shrunk to what is, for many producers, an unsustainable 43 cent per kg carcase weight.“
This year’s Conferences will take place on Tuesday, 19 October, in the Horse and Jockey Hotel, Thurles and on Wedndesday 20 October, in the Cavan Crystal Hotel, Cavan. The speakers will set out to address how producers might seek to reduce costs and, in particular feed costs, while endeavouring to command the best possible price for pigs slaughtered. The quality of the feed ingredients is critical in minimising feed costs. Where will pig feed ingredients in the future be sourced? Are there any measures that producers can take to minimise feed costs in the short-term? All these questions will be addressed at the conferences.
As litter size increases on pig units, how losses at, and after farrowing can be reduced will be addressed at the conference. Both carcase condemnations and the sale of pigs outside of the required weight range reduce the payment to producers. Steps to minimise these losses will be outlined.
The guest speaker is Derek Armstrong who is Veterinary Programme Manager with the British Pig Executive (BPEX). He will present a paper on the challenges now facing producers in relation to pig health and welfare and food safety. He will also participate in a panel discussion with producers and representatives of slaughtering plants which will focus on the slaughter pig. The Director of Teagasc, Professor Gerry Boyle, will open the conferences at 2.15pm.