Dairy Gene Ireland Programme Tests 53 Bulls in 2026 to Enhance Genetic Merit
The Dairy Gene Ireland programme, now in its 21st year, tested 53 bulls in 2026, according to the Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF). The initiative seeks to progeny test 70 young bulls annually to enhance genetic merit and reliability for Irish farms. Since 2005, more than 1,100 bulls have been evaluated, impacting the Active Bull List, with the top 75 active bulls in April being Irish-bred for the first time.
The programme collaborates with Irish artificial insemination (AI) companies. These companies identify and purchase young bulls with a high Economic Breeding Index (EBI) from dairy farmers. The selected bulls undergo genomic testing, and if successful, they join the Dairy Gene Ireland programme. Farmers receive straws from these bulls at a discounted rate of €12, although they are distributed randomly. Farmers can choose packs containing Holstein/Friesians or a mix of Holstein, Friesians, and Jerseys.
In 2026, 19,466 straws were distributed to participating farmers, with the programme's goal being to use 35,000 straws annually to obtain 100 milk-recorded heifers. Participants must record data on insemination dates, calving, and health, and perform four milk recordings on daughters from these sires during their first lactation. This data is crucial for determining the bull's reliability, transitioning them from genomic proof to daughter proven.
ICBF reported that over 182,000 male dairy calves were inducted into the programme in 2026, ensuring a robust pipeline for future AI sires in the Irish dairy sector.
