February 14, 2022

Offaly, Ireland-based  cattle breeder society appoints new manager

The Irish Simmental Cattle Society has announced the appointment of  Deirdre McGowan as its new general manager of the Offaly, Ireland-based cattle breed society.

McGowan has previous experience working with a breed producer group and livestock marts.

Commenting on the appointment, the current president of the Irish Simmental Cattle Society, Emmanuel O'Dea, said: "We are very impressed with the energy and enthusiasm that Deirdre has towards the role. We feel that her experience as a pedigree breeder combined with education and experience in the mart/beef sector gives her a great skillset for the varying challenges that the role will bring.

"We look forward to working with her to establish the Simmental breed as having a key role in improving the carbon footprint of both our dairy and suckler beef."

Speaking to Agriland following her appointment, Deirdre said: "The Simmental breed is renowned for its excellent maternal abilities and commendable growth rates for their age and these traits are vital for sustainable beef production, which is important in today's climate.

"I look forward to working with the society council and its members to grow and communicate the Simmental breed's importance in both the beef and dairy herd."

Deirdre also recently completed a masters in agriculture and biotechnology at Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT).

- Agriland