The sheep sector is heavily dependent on exports and the core markets remain France and the UK. Growth markets in Europe are Sweden, Germany and Belgium, with Sweden now representing our third most important market. Outside the EU opportunities are more limited. Application of the latest scientific knowledge to sheep breeding is only in its infancy. The establishment of Sheep Ireland plus the Sheep Technology Adoption Programme are improving matters. Key recommendations are:
The sheep sector is heavily dependent on exports and the core markets remain France and the UK. Growth markets in Europe are Sweden, Germany and Belgium, with Sweden now representing our third most important market. Outside the EU opportunities are more limited. Application of the latest scientific knowledge to sheep breeding is only in its infancy. The establishment of Sheep Ireland plus the Sheep Technology Adoption Programme are improving matters.
Key recommendations are:
Genetic improvement. Modify the very seasonal nature of Ireland’s sheepmeat supply.Increase farmer participation in Beef and Lamb Quality Assurance Schemes.Add value to exports.Increase sheep farmer participation in knowledge transfer programmes.Greater integration of hill and lowland sheep productionTeagasc to review sheep research and advisory programmes. 
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