Proof in the Field: UK Dairy Farmers see Solnua Progeny on Irish Soil

Solnua recently welcomed a group of progressive UK dairy farmers to Ireland for a three-day study tour organised in collaboration with our UK distribution partner, Genus ABS.

The tour was designed to showcase the people, research and breeding programmes behind Ireland’s world-renowned grass-based dairy industry. By bringing farmers directly to commercial dairy farms and research facilities, the trip provided an opportunity to see first-hand how genetics, grassland management and innovation are helping drive profitable and sustainable dairy businesses.

As Solnua’s partner in Great Britain, Genus ABS plays a vital role in connecting UK farmers with Irish dairy genetics and breeding expertise. The study tour highlighted the strength of this relationship, allowing customers to see the farms, science and breeding philosophy that sit behind the genetics available through the Solnua programme.

Learning from Leading Dairy Farmers

A highlight of the trip was the opportunity to visit four outstanding dairy farming businesses across Ireland.

We would like to thank our host farmers:

Kevin and Alan Meade, Co. Meath
Kevin Gleeson, Co. Tipperary
Donal Shinnick, Co. Cork
Tim Crowley, Co. Cork

Each farm offered valuable insight into how successful dairy businesses are managing grass, breeding, labour and herd performance. The openness of the host farmers and their willingness to share both successes and challenges created excellent discussion throughout the tour and provided practical learnings that visitors could take home and apply within their own systems.

The group was expertly guided throughout the tour by Michael Quinn and Sean Hayes of Progressive Genetics, together with Joe Flynn of Munster Bovine, whose expertise and local knowledge helped bring each farm visit to life.

Moorepark Research in Action

The group also visited Teagasc Moorepark, where they gained a fascinating insight into the research that underpins the success of Ireland’s dairy industry.

Delegates heard a series of excellent presentations covering key areas of modern dairy farming, including dairy economics from Laurence Shalloo, breeding and genetics from Donagh Berry, precision technologies from Emily Sitko and grassland management from Michael O’Donovan.

The presentations demonstrated how research, innovation and practical application continue to work together to improve profitability, efficiency and sustainability on dairy farms.

Showcasing the Solnua Dairy Breeding Programme

The study tour also provided an opportunity for farmers to learn more about the Solnua Dairy Breeding Programme and the genetics available to UK farmers through Genus ABS.

Presentations from Pat Donnellan and Niall Duffy showcased the breeding philosophy behind Solnua and introduced the exciting new bull team for the 2026/27 season. Discussions focused on breeding profitable, efficient and sustainable cows that deliver strong milk solids production, fertility, longevity and overall herd performance.

The sessions reinforced Solnua’s commitment to delivering genetics that create real value on farm, helping dairy farmers build herds that are fit for the future.

A Successful Collaboration

The study tour was a tremendous success and highlighted the value of collaboration between farmers, researchers, breeding advisers and industry partners.

A sincere thank you to all of our host farmers, presenters and advisers who made the trip possible, and to Genus ABS for their continued partnership and support in bringing the Solnua breeding programme to dairy farmers across Great Britain.

By combining world-class research, progressive farming practices and industry-leading genetics, Solnua and Genus ABS remain committed to helping farmers build more profitable, sustainable and resilient dairy businesses for the future.

Proof in the Field: UK Dairy Farmers see Solnua Progeny on Irish Soil