Through the Joint Programme, Teagasc will support Irish pig producers by providing advice, research and education across a range of issues of importance to the sector.

The funding for the programme is provided through a pig producer levy and will enable Teagasc to improve its services to the pig sector.

Ciarán Carroll, Head of Teagasc Pig Development Department welcomed the initiative saying, "The programme will enable Teagasc to provide a broader range of services to the sector. The levy will be used to fund two new advisers, two new researchers and a technician. Teagasc and IFA have been working on this programme for a few years now, so it’s great to see it come to fruition."

The new advisers, Dr Amy Quinn at Moorepark and Shane Brady at Balllyhaise, took up their new posts in August. Dr Keelin O’Driscoll commenced a research post in September and a pig nutrition researcher will commence shortly.

As part of the advisory service, producers will receive an annual visit to prepare and review an annual business plan for the farm. Other services will also be provided which will include the annual pig conference, workshops, group meetings, research dissemination days, discussion groups, newsletters and registration of participants on the very successful FETAC pig course.

Pat O’Flaherty, Chairperson, IFA Pigs & Pig meat Committee also welcomed the programme, saying, "It will further enhance the Teagasc service, and spread it to a broader range of producers than heretofore."

Mr Carroll concluded that the joint programme is a great boost for the sector which has been suffering financially over recent years. Teagasc are also committed to providing a new Pig Research and Food Test facility at Moorepark

A Joint Programme Operational Committee has been set up, comprising key Teagasc/IFA personnel. This group is developing an agreed programme of advice, research and education and will have overall responsibility for the implementation and delivery of the programme.

They will provide bi-annual reports to the Teagasc Pig Commodity Advisory (Stakeholder) Committee. Pig producers can submit their suggestions and comments for the Joint Programme through their advisers or their IFA representatives.