Tractorjunejuly2014

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IRISH

&

AGRI

JUNE/JULY 2014

Vol. 2 No. 2

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2 Agri News

Contents

Irish Tractor & Farm Machinery is published by DG Press, Kells Business Park, Kells, Co. Meath Telephone: (046) 9241923 Fax: (046) 9241926 e mail: contact@lynngroupmedia.com

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Express Tyres Cork Reputation for quality and reliability

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Moore’s Piggery Operating a successful pig production business for over 40 years

8 Country Crest One of the largest growers of potatoes & onions in Ireland

24 Kildorough Mushrooms Suppliers of a wide range of mushrooms to the food retail market 28 Mid Antrim Tractors Selling worldwide from their base in Ballyclare

30 Murphy Sheerin Veterinary Surgery Providing the highest quality healthcare for animals 33 Teemore Engineering Ltd. Leading manufacturer of cow cubicles

42 O’Brien Brothers Transport Ltd. Specialists in both livestock & refrigerated transport

46 Rhyno Quality Feeds Supplying animal feed since the early 20th century 52 Conly Agri Contractors Ensuring customer satisfaction

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56

Armstrong Machinery Ltd. Celebrating 60 years in the business

Rossmore Engineering Ltd. Only manufacturer of tractor front loaders in Ireland

60 Oakleaf Forestry Carving a niche for itself in the marketplace 65 Phil Bennis & Sons Ltd. Market leader in pig farm equipment supply & installation 68 O’Connor’s Tractors Ltd. Well known family business

72 Matt Foley Chairman IFA’s National Field Vegetables & Protected Crops Committee 75 Kerry Mechanical Engineering KME Pan-Breaker - a jewel in the company’s crown

78 Pat O’Flaherty Chairman IFA Pigs & Pig Meat Committee

80 Maxwell Concrete One of the premier precast manufacturers 83 Trade Assurance Scheme for Combinable Crops (TASCC) Voluntary scheme overseen by the Agricultural Industries Confederation

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Delight at success of first McHale Plant sales auction

Komatsu, Zetor and Merlo distributor McHale Plant Sales has expressed ‘delight’ at the outcome of their first used equipment auction held at their Birdhill headquarters recently, so much so they have set Tuesday, 1st July as the date for their next auction.

Seen by them as providing a further service to buyers and sellers of used equipment, 60% of the lots offered were sold on the day. These included a 2006 Komatsu PC180LC-7, a 1996 Volvo L120C, a 2014 Hitachi ZX130LCN – all sold to Irish buyers – and a 2007 Liebherr 317 (sold to the Netherlands) and Massey Ferguson 6270 (sold to Italy).

Given the current demand for good, high quality used equipment, McHale Plant Sales managing director Michael McHale expressed satisfaction that the lots offered ranged from a selection of small tool hire equipment up to the larger Komatsu PC800LC-8, plus a wide range of tractors, trucks, cars, vans and general agricultural equipment.

‘Given that it was our first venture into the auction arena, the experience we gained will be carried forward to our next auction on Tuesday, 1st July and onwards as we progress towards our goal of making our auctions the primary point of purchase for used plant and equipment in the mid-West’ he said.

One feature of the event was the attractive fee rates applicable – on tractors, 5% for sellers up to a maximum of €600 and a low 1% buyer’s fee.

A cut above the rest: world’s finest loggers ready for championship chainsaws

The 31st World Logging Championships 2014 will be held this coming September in the beautiful lakeside village of Brienz, Switzerland, the original home of wood carving.

A truly global event, featuring only the best loggers in the world, competitors will battle it out for three days across five unique disciplines in late summer to decide who will be the new world champion of logging.

Competing across tree felling, fitting another chain, bucking by combined cuts, precision bucking and limbing, competitors are subject to strict rules regarding technique and must use an officialy approved precision chainsaw such as the Husqvarna 576 XP or Husqvarna 372 XP. As an official sponsor of the Championships, Husqvarna

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Husqvarna at the World Logging Championships

will host a breaking news blog portal covering all aspects of the competition. www.wlc-2014.com. The site will provide logging fans and Husqvarna chainsaw users with the latest championship news as well as expert logging knowledge and advice.

The biannual three day competition for professional loggers was first hosted in 1970 and the competition has only grown bigger since. This year it begins 10th September and will feature competitors from over 30 countries.

Husqvarna will also provide complete technical support to all competitors using innovative Husqvarna precision chainsaws to ensure they receive the best possible preparation for the ultimate forestry event.

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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John Deere Remote Display Access now activated

John Deere’s Remote Display Access (RDA) system has now been fully activated in Western and Central European countries and selected CIS markets, as part of the John Deere FarmSight strategy.

Awarded a SIMA 2013 silver medal for innovation, RDA enables the dealer to remotely view the GreenStar 3 2630 display and the Generation 4 CommandCentre in the cab of a tractor, combine or forage harvester and, if necessary, advise the operator on how to optimise machine and implement settings.

“The full-scale availability of RDA is a significant step forward on the journey to expand our range of John Deere FarmSight solutions,” says Christoph Wigger, vicepresident sales & marketing for John Deere’s Europe, North Africa and CIS region. “Wireless connectivity between the operator in the field and the dealer results in significant time and input savings and leads to increased machine uptime.”

Remotely helping RDA is an integral part of the JDLink telematics fleet management system, which uses the machine’s integrated CAN-bus to view key performance data.

For example, JDLink reports and customer recommendations are available to analyse machine use, working hours and average engine load. This enables the dealer to suggest that the customer should keep an eye on idle machine time, consider increased use of guidance systems and eventually adopt a more fuel efficient driving habit.

The dealer can also carry out targeted operator training, even with third parties involved. Likewise, off-site experts can remotely view the driver’s screen for real-time troubleshooting and operator advice in the field. According to John Deere, using RDA technology can reduce the operator assistance cost* by around 30 per cent, as well as improving machine utilisation and performance.

The John Deere FarmSight strategy consists of a range of services offered by John Deere dealers based around machine optimisation, logistics optimisation and agronomic decision support.

Komatsu recognises McHale’s Europe-wide Hybrid sales success

Komatsu has awarded McHale Plant Sales first prize place in a Europe-wide sales contest in recognition of their success in achieving the most sales of the new HB215-1 hybrid excavator.

The first prize award – which recognises the success of McHale Plant Sales in selling the most HB215Komatsu hybrid 1 hybrid excavators since the commencement of the competition last September - will be accepted on behalf of the company by its director Tim Shanahan.

The HB215-1 hybrid excavator is designed to operate in sensitive environmental applications. Quieter, it emits less noise than conventional excavators making it suited for work in urban surroundings, confined spaces or city streets. Other beneficial features include average fuel savings of 25 percent and a corresponding reduction in CO2 emissions that makes it suitable for handling sensitive environmental projects.

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Michelin extends sprayer tyre range

In line with trends in farm machinery generally, sprayers and crop conditioning equipment are increasing in size.

With machines now carrying tanks of more than 4,500 liters capacity in order to meet productivity, speed and load capacity requirements, tyre manufacturer Michelin is extending its SprayBib tyre range designed for use on such equipment.

New into the range is a VF420/95R50 tyre uniquely developed for the crop-conditioning user. It follows the introduction two years ago of the SprayBib VF380/90R46.

Developed in co-operation with John Deere, the tyres incorporate Michelin’s Ultraflex technology. This allows the tyres to be operated at lower pressures, improving soil protection and creating a larger, more evenly distributed footprint. Other attributes include the more effective evacuation of mud, less chassis resonance and fewer vibrations that can affect onboard electronic systems.

With a load of 7,300 kilograms the Michelin SprayBib VF420/95R50 tyre can operate effectively at a pressure of just 3.6 bar. This ability to function at lower pressures enables farmers to take to the fields in a wider range of weather and soil conditions.

Michelin introduces BibLoad Hard Surface Tyre

Sprayer tyre from Michelin

Gone are the days when farm machines spent most of their time travelling in fields and on soft surfaces. Now, because farms are bigger and more far-flung, farmers are spending almost as much time travelling on roads and concrete farmyards as on soft ground.

Responding to this change, and to the increased farm use of compact loaders and telehandlers – machines that carry out a large number of lateral, longitudinal and transversal movements on hard, wet surfaces - Michelin has introduced the BibLoad Hard Surface radial tyre.

A key feature of the new tyre, and the one most obvious to the eye, is its patented, diamond-shaped, multi-directional tread blocks which provide no fewer than six different grip angles with facets that make the block more rigid regardless of tread depth. Another is its reinforced sidewalls that provide more resistance to cuts and scrapes.

Developed to complement the MICHELIN XMCL range, it delivers improved driving comfort and reduced noise. Launched in sizes 400/70 R20 and 460/70 R24, others will follow to accompany changes in equipment design.

Keanes Farm Machinery New Tumosan Tractors In Stock Welger Balers | Lely Mowers & Rakes Abbey, Pottinger, Conor, McKenna Range of Machinery Tractors New Holland TL100, 02 | Landini Ghibli 90, 01 MF 390 T, 390s, 135s 35s , Spare Parts Stocked

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Claremorris Road, Balla, Co. Mayo.

Tel:094-9365064 Email: keanesfarmmachinery@gmail.com

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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New Kuhn wrappers feature twin film application for faster wrapping and added cost savings Kuhn Farm Machinery’s new RW1400 and RW 1600 bale wrappers with e-Twin wrapping functionality will be on display at this year’s Grassland & Muck event at Stoneleigh on 21st and 22nd May. Kuhn’s RW 1400 and RW 1600 trailed, self-loading round bale turntable wrappers offer users a fast and cost-effective bale wrapping solution thanks to hte use of Kuhn’s patented e-Twin film distribution system.

The e-Twin system applies two layers of film simultaneously, thereby reducing the amount of labour and fuel required to wrap a bale by up to 50%. The system makes further cost savings by pre-stretching the film by up to 90% so that one roll of film can cover a larger number of bales.

John Deere’s flagship combines now produced in Zweibrücken

As of this year John Deere’s largest S-Series combines – the 540hp S680, 570hp S685, 617hp S690 and their respective ‘i’ versions for the European and CIS markets – are being produced in Zweibrücken, Germany.

“We already have 50 years of experience in combine production for European and overseas markets and have invested approximately 20 million euros in our assembly facilities, infrastructure and quality assurance,” says factory manager Ralf Gaa. “It is another milestone for Zweibrücken that we can now label the entire range of John Deere W-, T- and S-Series combines as ‘Made in Germany’. By adding the biggest S-Series manufacturing to Zweibrücken, we can react better than ever to the growing demand for high-capacity rotary combines.”

Equipped with a grain tank capacity of up to 14,100 litres, John Deere’s large horsepower S-Series combines feature a single tine rotor and have been designed to provide maximum performance and excellent grain and straw quality. Their highly flexible residue management system meets a variety of harvest requirements.

Complementing the wide range of existing John Deere cutting platforms for combines, the new, versatile 600X header with extendable cutterbar will be available in limited quantities and countries for the 2014 harvest.

S-Series combines are also available with a number of intelligent solutions, including the new interactive combine adjustment (ICA). Designed to minimise losses and maximise both grain and straw quality, ICA offers the operator a choice of several harvesting strategies and either single or multiple optimisation targets.

To further enhance machine and fleet performance, John Deere S-Series combines can be fitted with JDLink telematics and Machine Sync harvesting logistics systems, both elements of the John Deere FarmSight strategy.

In addition, John Deere’s GoHarvest mobile phone app is now available as a free download for smartphones and tablets.

This latest application allows operators in the field to optimise their combine easily and always have the recommended John Deere settings to hand.

WANT TO SEE YOUR STORY FEATURED ON THESE PAGES? Then get in touch with us at contact@lynngroupmedia.com IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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New John Deere trailed sprayers at Cereals 2014

John Deere’s new mid-specification M-Series trailed sprayer range makes its working debut at Cereals 2014, in the Sprays & Sprayers demonstration arena.

To help reduce spraying cost per hectare, the Trailed Sprayer M700 Series sprayers have been specially designed for farms growing up to 750ha of cereals, oilseed rape or row crops. M700 Series sprayers are available as standard versions with 2400, 3200 or 4000-litre tanks, or as ‘i-specification’ machines with 3200 or 4000litre tank capacities. Equipped with a triple folding 30m boom, these sprayers match 6m seeders or drills.

The larger M900 Series sprayers have many of the same features as the top of the range R900i Series trailed machines, including high M962i Sprayer capacity filling performance using the PowrFill chemical inductor, the same choice of 5200 or 6200-litre tank capacities for maximum productivity, and durable steel booms from 24 to 40m.

Both the M700i and M900i sprayers are ISOBUS ready, so the machines can communicate with the tractor and enable ‘intelligent’ John Deere solutions. These include the Tank Fill Calculator, which helps the operator to calculate the correct amount of refill volumes required for each application, BoomTrac automatic boom height and tilt control and FieldDoc documentation software. M900i sprayers also offer a new in-cab nozzle control, allowing the operator to switch between spray nozzles on the move (see separate release).

To meet the increasing demand for satellite guidance systems, AutoTrac automatic tractor steering and GPS boom section control are available for use with both i and non-i versions of the M-Series sprayers. A new Implement Display 1100 has also been developed to control the sprayer in conjunction with the multi-function lever; on the non-ISOBUS machines, this can be replaced by a GreenStar 1800 display when using a StarFire receiver and for automatic boom section control.

New sprayer nozzles switch on the move

John Deere’s high-specification M900i and R900i Series trailed sprayers will be available in 2014 with a new optional in-cab nozzle control system. This allows the operator to switch between a choice of two spray nozzles on the move, at the touch of a screen on the tractor’s GreenStar display. The system will be featured for the first time on the John Deere stand at Cereals 2014 in June.

The versatile TwinSelect system has been developed and tested in close partnership with the nozzle’s manufacturer Pentair Hypro to meet John Deere’s demanding quality and reliability standards. John Deere is one of the first sprayer manufacturers to offer the system commercially.

The TwinSelect nozzle body is a compactly designed unit comprising a four-way turret on one side plus a second outlet on the opposite side, each with their own pneumatic valves, providing five nozzle options altogether. The operator can easily and quickly switch between two different types or sizes of nozzle to produce different spray characteristics or application rates as required, for both pesticides and fertilisers.

Several minutes can be saved when switching between nozzles on a 36m spray boom, compared to doing it manually, and TwinSelect also utilises the sprayer’s existing pressure recirculation system for ease of use in the field. Full protection of the nozzle body and nozzles is provided by incorporating the system into the boom’s steel structure.

In practice this means an operator can set out for a day’s spraying equipped with a tailor-made selection of spray nozzles and, if required, a liquid fertiliser dribble bar or cap to suit a range of application and crop requirements, all working from a single sprayline. The TwinSelect system saves time in the field as well as during the rinsing operation, compared to using a twin sprayline.

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IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Country Crest is recognised as o of quality potatoes and

The Hoey family has been farming in North County Dublin for over 100 years

C

omas is keeping her Country

ountry Crest is one of the largest growers of potatoes and onions in Ireland and owners Michael and Gabriel Hoey are passionate about their company and its produce. In Thomas Murphy they found a like-minded individual to manage their farm.

“Farming a 3,000 acre site is a big

responsibility. You go to bed at night thinking about it and wake up in the morning thinking about it.”

Thomas Murphy wouldn't have it any other way though because, as the Monasterboice native says himself, he landed on his feet when he was appointed farm manager at Country Crest in February 2013.

Celebrating 21 years in business this year, the Lusk, Co Dublin-based operation has evolved into a progressive agri-food business, one that is recognised as one of the biggest suppliers and growers of quality potatoes and onions to Ireland’s key multiples.

In addition to this, Country Crest is now also a Bord Bia quality assured supplier

Winter and spring cereals, as well as grasses, are also grown on Country Food’s agri-food site

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IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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est is recognised as one of the biggest suppliers and growers quality potatoes and onions to Irelands key multiples

of premium Irish Beef and is noted as a leader in its field in value added food production via its sister company; Ballymaguire Foods.

Ballymaguire Foods, located on the Lusk Agri Foods site, is a specialist producer of chilled, prepared foods such as meals, meal

accompaniments, soups and sauces. “It was a brilliant opportunity and when I got the chance I jumped at it. Country Crest has always had a great reputation and are one of the leaders in the agricultural sector in this country,�

Thomas added.

The Hoey family boasts a farming heritage in North County Dublin spanning 100 years and, today, their company Country Crest is still producing the freshest produce on the family farm.

The fourth generation of the Hoey family, brothers

CONTACT DETAILS

Country Crest

Rathmooney Lusk, Co. Dublin.

Tel: +353 1 843 7061 Fax: +353 1 843 9492 E-mail: info@countrycrest.ie

Celebrating 21 years in business. Country Crest has evolved into a progressive agri-food business IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Michael and Gabriel, established Country Crest in 1993.

Set up to grow and pre-pack fresh potatoes for the retail sector, Country Crest has built strong relationships with the best Irish growers and national

retailers who appreciate their passion for authenticity, innovation and the best possible produce.

Working around the clock, Thomas's responsibility is to ensure that the farm runs efficiently and profitably and he is

highly skilled in all aspects of the farm business.

The job is varied and includes planning strategies for maximum yield, organising farm administration, working machinery and managing staff.

Best wishes to all at Country Crest, from

Thomas Murphy’s responsibility is to ensure that the Country Crest farm runs efficiently and profitably

Best Wishes To Country Crest

10

“Put short and simple, I get the crops in the grounds, look after them when they are in the ground and get them harvested. It's about ensuring all that is done and it's about organising as much as anything else.”

Thomas is responsible for five full-time staff and an extra 10 at the height of the season, weather dependent of course!

“Country Crest started out basically as potato and vegetable growers.

That's the core business and it has built up from there to become an accomplished and IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Nevitt, Lusk, Co. Dublin Tel: 8439563 Mobile: 086-2637835

SUPPLY AND SALE OF HAYLAGE/HAY/SILAGE/STRAW PROVIDING A FULL RANGE OF SERVICES e.g. ROUND BALING AND 8/4/3 SQUARE BALING, PLOUGHING, TILLING AND SOWING CORN / GRASS SEEDING/ DUNG/COMPOST SPREADING / SPRAYING ETC.

CONTINUED GOOD WISHES & SUCCESS TO ALL AT COUNTRY CREST IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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CONTINUED BEST WISHES TO COUNTRY CREST FROM

FOR ALL YOUR MACHINERY NEEDS ARMSTRONG MACHINERY LTD. THE FIVE ROADS, LUSK, CO. DUBLIN 01-8431130 www.armstrongmachinery.ie

Butterly Fuels Ltd Best Wishes To Country Crest From

YOUR LOCAL OIL DISTRIBUTOR

Best Wishes To Country Crest

Supplier of Agri Diesel, Road Diesel, Kerosene & Fuel Additives CALL (01) 8438243 Kenure Demesne, Rush, Co. Dublin

The Country Store John: 086-607 5789 Email: butterlyfuels@gmail.com

at

Deeside Agri Services Ltd. Richardstown, Dunleer, Co. Louth

Tel: 041-6863524 Fax:041-6863548 Email: maureen@deesideagri.com Best Wishes To Country Crest

12

Irish Tractor & Farm Machinery Magazine

Call Barry now on 00353 (0) 46 9241923

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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leading Agri food business. Michael and Gabriel (Hoey) take great pride in growing potatoes themselves.

“We produce 350-400 acres of potatoes every years and 120-130 acres of onions on top of that.

“We have network of growers covering a lot of the country, from Donegal to Wexford, and no expense is spared.

Every potato we put through the factory is washed and has a cosmetic finish. It's all there to be seen from our own farm and our network of growers.”

Country Crest has come a long way these past 21 years.

In 1995, Minister Noel Davern officially opened a new facility for washing, grading and packing potatoes. The €3.8 million investment represented a stateof-the art development for Country Crest and resulted in a doubling of staff.

Ten years later, the Hoey brothers set about reviving an almost obsolete industry, making a €4 million investment in a state-of-the-art onion grading, packaging and primary storage facility.

This state-of-the-art 3,000 tonne storage and drying facility harvests their Irish onion crop and Country Crest remains as Ireland’s only commercial grower and packer of onions In 2008, they recognised the opportunity to add to their existing produce business by establishing a prepared foods divisions, focusing on quality vegetable accompaniments and main meal dishes which leads to the creation of Ballymaguire Foods Winter and spring cereals, as well as grasses, are also grown on their agrifood site, thereby creating the most sustainable food sources for their Ballymaguire Foods meal solutions division.

The company's focus on sustainability was enhanced with the introduction of an IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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KNIGHTSTOWN ENTERPRISES Comhghairdeas leis Country Crest ó

Baile na Ridire ( Town of the Knights)

FENCING | GATES | WAREHOUSING | HOUSING Knightstown, Lusk, Fingal Co. Dublin | Email: 2declanwhite@eircom.net

Telephone: 086-8240688

TRACE ELEMENTS

The YaraVita range of micro nutrients is the most technically advanced range available.

The unique features of our products are: • High nutrient concentration.

• Low application rates.

• Unrivalled compatibility in tank mixing with all the regular fungicides, herbicides and insecticides • Less packaging and handling

FOR TRACE ELEMENT SPRAYS ALWAYS THINK Wishing Continued Success To Michael & Gabriel Best Wishes To Country Crest From

TRANSPORT & STORAGE

Treen Hill, Lusk, Co. Dublin Tel:01-8431978 Fax:01-8431979 Continued success to all at Country Crest, from

Best Wishes & Continued Success To

COUNTRY CREST

www.europumps.ie

SALES AND SERVICE FOR HOT AND COLD HIGH PRESSURE WASHERS MAIN SALES & SERVICE FOR HIGH PRESSURE CAT PUMPS REELCRAFT HOSE REELS, REPLACEMENT HOSES, GUNS, LANCES PROVIDING FACILITIES TO THE PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY, AGRICULTURAL, DAIRY, FOOD & ENGINEERING SECTORS

Europumps Ireland, Westpoint Trade Centre, Ballincollig, Co. Cork.

Tel: 021-4810977 M: 087-2406899 email: info@europumps.ie

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IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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80 metre on-site wind turbine which supplies over 60% of their energy needs in 2009.

The integration of sustainability with their business philosophy, coupled with the implementation of a variety of innovative sustainability initiatives, results in Country Crest winning the 2011 Bord Bia Food & Drink Industry Sustainability Award.

They were then invited to become a pilot company for Bord Bia’s Origin Green Sustainability Development Programme.

In their most recent departure, Country Crest now boasts their own cattle feeding unit on site.

This allows them complete and assured traceability of quality beef, specifically the cuts they use for their prepared foods division.

Traceability is an integral part of the company's ethos and a practice that remains of the highest priority across all divisions: fresh produce, farming and prepared foods manufacturing.

“Basically that came about as a result of the horse meat scandal last year,” Thomas explained. “It had absolutely nothing to do with Country Crest but the perception was out there amongst the general public.

“It's a new development, the owners had cattle years ago before concentrating on potatoes, and it is a new challenge on a big scale but one that has worked out extremely well so far.”

Although somewhat challenged with the declining consumption of potatoes in Ireland, and rising input costs for growing quality produce, the Hoey's total business (farming, fresh produce and value added foods) is always moving forward, innovating and creating new opportunities for the future success and longevity of the business and the brand name; Country Crest.

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

T: 00353 (0) 184 33440

T: 00353 (0) 184 33440 M: 00353 (0) 86 3734260 T: 00353 (0) 184 33440

T: 00353 (0) 184 33440

CONTINUED SUCCESS TO ALL AT COUNTRY CREST 15

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Your tractor is in safe hands at Express Tyre Centre, left - Nick Coffey, Radovan Hradil, Tommy Coughlan, Dave Suderland and Wesley Taylor

E

î “e tractor tyre specialists

xpress Tyres Cork is a major supplier to the agricultural industry and since its inception has developed a reputation for quality and reliability which is the envy of many of its competitors.

When working as an agricultural contractor back in the early nineties, proprietor Wesley Taylor spotted an opening in the market and took the brave decision to go out on his own. He hasn't looked back since.

Located at the Portgate Business Park in Monkstown, midway between Carrigaline and Ringaskiddy, Express Tyres Cork cater for all your agricultural and tractor tyre needs - and at the right price.

They carry a large range of agricultural and tractor tyres and will ensure that they are fitted in a speedy manner. They specialise in BKT Agrimax but carry all brands to meet their customers needs.

Started from humble beginnings by

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Wesley back in 1994, the company is celebrating the milestone of 20 years in business in 2014 and the proprietor reveals the secrets behind their success.

"We started of as a rescue and repairs outfit but the business has grown from there and I have no regrets," he outlined to Irish Tractor & Agri magazine. "It has taken a lot of hard work and dedication to get us to where we are today but it has all been worth it.

"We pride ourselves on the quality of our service. We will always will get our customers up and running one way or the other. We don't focus on one brand, we focus on quality and we cater for all our customers' needs, from the upper end of the market to the lower."

When Wesley started out he ploughed a lone furrow but nowadays he is joined in the running of the company by five employees, including his wife Lorraine. He is fulsome in his praise of the role his staff members have played in the continued

success of Express Tyres.

"They are a key component," he added.

"Skills wise they all have their own areas of expertise and only for them we wouldn't be where we are today."

A member of the Irish Tyre Traders Association, Express Tyres Cork's primary concern is the safety of their customers.

They will advise you on the correct tyre choice based on the vehicle you drive and more importantly the way you drive it.

They provide a comprehensive range of tyres for different vehicles across all budgets, almost all of which are always in stock at their state-of-the-art tyre fitting centre.

They also stock a full selection of batteries, wiper blades, and bulbs and pride themselves in ensuring that you leave their premises with a safe and roadworthy vehicle.

As a key part of their commitment to road safety, the Taylor family-run outfit performs 3D wheel alignment also known as IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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also provide the following additional services - 24/7 call out service for all vehicle types from buses to cars, custom built rims, wheel modification, wheel reconditioning and wheel re-spraying.

Their client list boasts all the major CONTACT DETAILS companies in the Ringaskiddy area such as Pfizer, Novartis, Express Tyres Cork Centocor, GSK, and the Naval Base and 10 Portgate Business Park they provide deals for Monkstown local employees.

Co Cork William O'Brien Crane Telephone: 021 4919003 Hire, Roadstone, Email: info@expresstyrescork.ie Greenstar, Hayes Website: www.expresstyrescork.ie Haulage and numerous

tracking to ensure that your vehicle is safe and that you get the best value and wear from your tyres.

Their full service includes light focusing, and puncture repairs while Express Tyres

agricultural contractors and tillage farmers are others counted amongst their valued customers.

The agricultural sector could, however, be accurately

described as their bread and butter, according to Wesley, and the company has never forgotten its roots.

"The agricultural end of the business is going very well.

Westboro Partners wish Express Tyres Cork Continued Success for the future

Westboro Partners provide Business Advisory Services Audit - Forensic Accounting - Grants - Insolvency & Corporate Recovery - Taxation - Wealth Management Services

Westboro House, Montenotte, Cork Tel:353-21-4500568 E: mmagee@westboro.ie W: www.westboro.ie

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Congratulations to EXPRESS TYRES CORK on 20 Years in Business From TRACTAMOTORS LTD, Dublin Road, Cavan 17

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The margins wouldn't be as good but it was the agricultural business that has kept us going during the last five years.

As the industrial side got bigger, we enjoyed a lot of business there but we never forgot our agricultural roots.

"We've been forced to downscale in recent times but the agricultural business

stayed with us and kept us going."

Is Wesley optimistic about the future outlook for the business?

"Looking forward. I would hope to see further improvement in the economy.

Things are definitely on the up, our turnover is up and we're out of the downfall but there is

Quality of service is top of Express Tyres Cork’s list of priorities

Express Tyres cater for all your agricultural and tractor tyre needs

always room for improvement.

"Our turnover dropped two thirds from what it was in 2007/'08 but it's back up by nearly a third. Naturally enough we would like to see that trend continue.�

As well as tractor tyres, Cork Express Tyres can satisfy their customers demands for row crop tyres

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18

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express tyre designed_Layout 1 10/06/2014 11:06 Page 4

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19

Mattie Moore designed_Layout 1 10/06/2014 16:12 Page 1

Finishing farm

ESF stations for sows with Michael Donoghue

T

Bringing home the bacon

he Moore family has been operating a successful pig production business for over 40 years in Offaly and Carlow. Mattie Moore explains more.

When Patrick Moore started out with a single sow in the early 1970s, he could scarcely have imagined how big his business would become. Nowadays, the family keeps 1,800 sows at their farm in Croghan, Co. Offaly which produces thousands of finished pigs every year. The Moores are one of just 200 pig producers in Ireland who operate 400 farms between them.

Incredibly, these 200 farmers, combined with the feed mills, give employment to 8,000 people, with approximately 60 per cent of Irish bacon and pork products being exported.

“The industry doesn’t get the recognition or credit it deserves,” maintains Mattie Moore, who heads up the family business along with his aforementioned father Patrick.

“It’s remarkable to think that 200 farmers are able to produce the amount of pork and bacon that they do. Compared to other farming sectors, the industry is very small.

Everyone knows everyone in it.

20

“When students from local secondary schools visit our farm, they are amazed and fascinated with what they see. A lot of them wouldn’t have even been aware of our existence! We also take in a lot of agricultural science and veterinary students on work experience. The pig industry is a hidden gem which has huge scoop for growth in this country.”

Mattie and Miriam Moore with their boys, Patrick Og, Joseph and Michael

The Moores produce pigs from three different units in Offaly and Carlow. The cycle begins on the family farm not far from the summit of Croghan Hill, which is the remains of an extinct volcano and rises from the Bog of Allen in north Co. Offaly, and continues in Tullow where the pigs are finished at separate units. The Moores mill their own feed in addition to keeping heifers and growing their own corn.

The three farms are known as: Croghan Pig Farm, Rath Pig Farm and Forest Pig Farm. The mill is called Moore Feeds.

“The pigs spend the first part of their lives in Croghan before they are relocated to our two fat pig farms in Tullow when they are weaners. The weaners weigh between 17kg and 30kg. Once they are finished, they go to McCarron’s in Cavan or Dawn Pork & Bacon in Waterford for slaughter. We’ve always sold directly to the factories,” Mattie explains.

The business produces 220 tonnes of milled feed per week in Tullow and has a nice arrangement with local farmers in this regard. “The grain we use comes indirectly from them who, conversely, get it back in the form of pig slurry. We allow them to come in and draw the slurry away. The feed IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Mattie Moore designed_Layout 1 10/06/2014 16:12 Page 2

we produce is only for our own use,” Mattie continues.

The Moores also use their transport. They have two trucks – a MAN 480 and a Volvo FM12 – to cater for the transport of pigs and feed.

“The big advantage to having your own transport is that your pigs don’t come in contact with pigs from other

Moore Feeds produce their own feed

farms and, thus, you eliminate the threat of disease spreading. Your health and is your wealth in this game.”

The business is a real family affair with Mattie’s mother Lily and wife Miriam also involved.

Mattie and Miriam have three young boys – Patrick Og, Joseph and Michael – who they hope will be the next generation of pig farmers in Croghan. A total of 10 staff is employed between the three production units and the milling plant.

Mattie studied agriculture at the now closed Franciscan College in

Adrian Ennis pregnancy scanning sows

Noel Browne vaccinates a young pig with a needleless gun IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

A farmer drawing slurry away from one of the pig units

Multyfarnham, Co. she is identified by means of Westmeath and actually a transponder in her ear tag. captained them to win an AllThe computer-controlled Ireland Agricultural Colleges feeder allots her a specific league football title in 1997. amount of feed, dropped into He continued his football the feed bowl over a limited career thereafter with his period of time. During the local St. Brigid’s GAA club feed drop, and for several and was runner-up in the minutes afterwards, the 2010 FBD Young Farmer of entrance gate remains locked the Year competition in 2010. so that other sows may not The Moores have invested enter. The sow may leave at heavily in their pig units over any time, ending the the years, having in recent dispensing of feed and times installed a state-of-theunlocking the entrance for the art ESF (Electronic Sow next sow. The computer Feeder) system in Croghan. An ESF system generally CONTACT DETAILS provides a single (or very few) feeding station(s) for a large Moore’s Piggery group of sows (typically 40 to 60 Old Croghan, sows per station). The Croghan Rhode, sows must eat Co. Offaly sequentially, one after the other, from the Tel: 057 9353118 same station. Once a sow enters the station Email: the entrance gate moorespigery@eircom.net locks behind her and

21

Mattie Moore designed_Layout 1 10/06/2014 16:12 Page 3

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Moore’s Piggery

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Moore’s Piggery Best Wishes To Moore’s Piggery, From

O’Doherty Farm Services Ltd. Best Wishes & Continued Success To Moore’s Piggery, From Lalyle, Ardnacrusha, Co. Clare Suppliers of Skiold Feed Mill to Moore Feeds Ltd

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Continued success to the Moore Family

Irish Tractor & Farm Machinery Magazine

Call Barry now on 00353 (0) 46 9241923

22

Manufacture products and supply technical support for all species, including ruminants, poultry, swine and pets.

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IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Mattie Moore designed_Layout 1 10/06/2014 16:12 Page 4

records the amount of feed that has been dispensed to each sow - not the amount actually eaten - and allocates any undispensed allotment to a subsequent entrance by the same sow that same day, or to her next day’s feed. The system typically cycles on a daily basis, with a new allotment of feed being made available to each sow every 24 hours.

As the stockperson is not be present while each sow eats, the system must provide feedback on any sows that fail to eat their allotment each day. This feedback is in the form of an 'attention' list available to the stockperson at the end of each 24-hour

One of the trailers used for finishers

cycle, and is used to identify animals that may need additional care.

“The days of hand-feeding pigs are gone. Everything is automated now. The welfare of our pigs is also very important to us,” Mattie says.

The Moores are members of the IFA Pigs and Pig Meat Committee, which is the representative body for the country’s pig producers. Key policy areas and areas of activity for the IFA Pigs Committee include: pig prices and weekly market analysis; meetings with processors to maintain pressure to return a fair price with both suppliers and committee members; promoting and organising the

export of weaners to continent and slaughter pigs to Northern Ireland.

The IFA has also commissioned a study to look at the cost elements in pig feed and identify ways of reducing costs. IFA pressure also succeeded in getting the Pig Industry Review study completed and since its publication it has organised a number of meetings to progress this issue with a development group established to identify the core issues and the best option for all producers going forward.

In addition, the IFA has made significant progress on pig health, welfare and

environmental issues.

Mattie welcomes the DNA Certified Programme for pig meat which was established to combat misleading labelling and to provide reassurance for producers and consumers on the origin of pig meat on the Irish market.

Mattie is also a shareholder in Truly Irish Country Foods, which is a farm-based business established by 80 pig producers that gives the shareholder full control of his product from farm to market.

As producers of the finest pork and bacon in the world, these farmers had become increasingly frustrated with the quality of rashers, sausages and bacon being sold to Irish consumers and decided to fight back by forming their own farmer coop with producers in every county. Following on from this, they launched their own brand in a bid to counter the mislabelling of their brands which were giving the impression that they were Irish.

“One of the objectives of Truly Irish is to ensure pig producers get a bigger cut of the price. High grain prices have made things very tough for us. You have to get bigger and bigger if you want to continue making the same money. A lot of pig farmers are struggling at the moment,” he concludes.

Continued success to Moore’s Piggery

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Best wishes to Kildorough Mushrooms from Monaghan Mushrooms & Carbury Compost

Tyholland, Co. Monaghan Tel: 047-38222 www.monaghan-mushrooms.com Best Wishes & Continued Success To KILDOROUGH MUSHROOMS From Best Wishes & Continued Success To Kildorough Mushrooms

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Irish Tractor & Farm Machinery Magazine

Call Barry now on 00353 (0) 46 9241923

24

HEATING & WATERING SYSTEMS TO THE MUSHROOM INDUSTRY

Continued Success To Kildorough Mushrooms From

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kildorough designed_Layout 1 10/06/2014 15:55 Page 2

Kildorough Mushrooms continue to grow T

he business of growing mushrooms has been ongoing in Ireland for many, many years and they are used extensively in cooking, in various cuisines.

Mushrooms are a low-calorie food eaten cooked or raw and as garnish to a meal. Dietary mushrooms are a good source of B vitamins, while when exposed to ultraviolet light, vitamin D2 is produced in mushrooms, a process now exploited for the functional food retail market. Most mushrooms sold in supermarkets have been commercially grown on mushroom farms.

The most popular of these, is considered safe for most people to eat because it is grown in controlled, sterilized environments. In recent years, increasing affluence in developing countries has led to a considerable growth in interest in mushroom cultivation, which is now seen as a potentially important economic activity for small farmers.

For the past 25 years, Kildorough Mushrooms have been supplying a wide range of mushrooms to the food retail market and for this month’s edition of Irish Tractor and Agri, we profile the Cavan based business and speak to owner Pat Kiernan and Financial Director Niall Thornton about the day to day running of the company.

Established in 1999, Kildorough Mushrooms is part of a family IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

200,000lbs of mushrooms are processed each week

business that is one of three outlets that are a satellite firm for Breffni Mushrooms. The company has grown from being a small concern to one of the main mushroom producers in Ireland.

Hailing from a farming background, Pat revealed that his interest in mushroom growing was enhanced when he working for a company in the mid-eighties.

“I worked in a compost yard for A view of the premises Foxfield Mushrooms and that is where I learned a lot about the business,” said Pat. “I was farming at the same time and we started the mushroom business on a small scale at first.”

However, in 2001, an unwelcome twist of fate saw Pat diversify totally into the mushroom business. “My herd of cattle were struck down by tuberculosis and although it was a very turbulent time, I decided to focus on the mushrooms even more and I teamed up with my Walter and Thomas discuss filling brother Thomas to form Kildorough Mushrooms.”

During the early days, there were 18,000 lbs of mushrooms produced by Kildorough, but that has increased to 200,000 lbs per week these days, a staggering increase by any stretch of the imagination.

“Two thirds of the mushrooms we produce Pat and Thomas Kiernan have worked hard to make the would go to the U.K business a success

25

kildorough designed_Layout 1 10/06/2014 15:55 Page 3

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IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

kildorough designed_Layout 1 10/06/2014 15:55 Page 4

One of the harvesters carrying out her duties

market where Aldi retails them in their outlets. We have 25 growing rooms at the moment, but we are looking to increase that number in the future.”

The production of mushrooms is a six-week cycle and it is a complicated process that sees the staff receive intensive training for the same period.

“It’s a six-week training process for any new employees. There is a lot to learn as there are so many different types of mushrooms,” added Financial Controller Niall Thornton.

“There are around 120 people working here and we are part of the Commercial Mushroom Producers since the business was first set up 25 years ago.”

CMP was established in 1999 as a horticultural producers organisation under European Union legislation.

In the 1990s the Irish mushroom industry rapidly

expanded and by 1996 the number of mushroom growers peaked at almost 600.

CMP was established as a co-operative by mushroom growers for mushroom growers, and to deliver stability to the market by improving quality of m u s h r o o m s , maintaining the consistency of supply and getting a sustainable margin for producers.

Over the last few years CMP has consistently invested in technology at Kildorough Mushrooms. “On a practical level CMP have provided OFI for shelving units in the tunnels, and 75 automated picking trolleys, which increased efficiency by 20%,” Niall says.

Training of staff has also been very important for our development. “Over the last few years we’ve availed of CMP’s training programme to get all of our pickers FETAC trained. This adds a level of skill and expertise to the job that didn’t exist before and hugely adds to the quality of our mushrooms.”

CMP place a massive emphasis on reducing its carbon footprint and they work closely with all their members to do so.

“Anything that reduces energy costs is very well received, and we are continuously looking at ways of doing this,” stressed Niall.

CMP run checks every

month to ensure everything is running smoothly and Pat had the final say when he stated that the aim was to continue working closely with them and expand for the future.

“This has been possible thanks to drive, constant innovation and in no small way the help support and marketing strength of a strong producer organisation in CMP. We have steadily grown during the time we have been in business and

CONTACT DETAILS

Kildorough Mushrooms Address: Kildorough Glebe Ballyjamesduff, Cavan.

Phone: 0498545760

hopefully we can continue to do that and break into other markets.”

Best Wishes to Kildorough Mushrooms From

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Two thirds of the mushrooms produced are exported to the UK IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Continued Best Wishes To KILDOROUGH MUSHROOMS 27

Mid Antrim designed_Layout 1 11/06/2014 12:46 Page 1

Used tractors you can trust

M

id Antrim Tractors are one of the leading farm machinery exporters in Ireland, selling tractors and handlers worldwide from their base in Ballyclare. Their products can be tailored precisely to their customers needs and are very much in demand according to Export Manager Andrew Mawhinney.

Based in Ballyclare, Co Antrim, Mid Antrim Tractors are a well established supplier of high quality used tractors and handlers.

Set up in 1986 by Randal Nelson, the progressive outfit offer customers plenty of choice and stock a wide range of tractors and machinery from manufacturers such as Case-IH, Claas, Deutz Fahr, JCB, Kramer, Valtra, John Deere, Merlo, Manitou, Massey Ferguson, New Holland, Renault and Same.

The company's Export manager Andrew Mawhinney – who has been on the payroll of the last two years – elaborates: “We're

28

Mid Antrim Tractors offer customers plenty of choice

not tied to one brand which means we can “Tractors can be adapted to our look after our customers' needs. customers specific requirements, for “We have all sorts of tractors here in our example tractors can be fitted with loaders yard, generally up on 50 to 60 at any one and attachments while front linkages, front point. If a client has a particular type of PTO Systems and weights etc, can be tractor in mind for a specific job, we should added or removed depending on their be able to look after them. requirements.”

“We stock good quality used machinery to Handlers can even have new pick up suit most requirements” It is this flexible approach that has stood Mid Antrim Tractors in good stead in the past and should sustain them in the future.

Their primary focus is on quality, personal service and attention to detail.

Randal Nelson and his team appreciate the importance of Mid Antrim Tractors was established in 1986 by Randal Nelson customer relations.

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Mid Antrim designed_Layout 1 11/06/2014 12:46 Page 2

hitches fitted should their customers require CONTACT DETAILS while tyres can also be changed on any tractor.

Mid Antrim Tractors can Mid Antrim Tractors price new tyres and rims to suit any tractor they 60 Collin Road have in stock depending on what a customer Tildarg needs.

Ballyclare As agents for Quicke County Antrim and Trima, they can BT39 9TF supply customers with a Northern Ireland New Quicke or Trima Tel: +44 (0)28 9335 2486 loader to suit any tractor Email: info@midantrimtractors.co.uk that they have in stock.

“Our tractors and handlers can be found in far flung places such as “We can also fit any Auctralia, Japan, Saudi Arabia and South America tractor that we have in international currencies i.e. stock with a New Stoll loader.”

Euros.”

Based four miles north of Many businesses were forced Ballyclare town, Mid Antrim Tractors are approximately 13 to shut their doors during the miles from the Belfast economic downturn but Mid International Airport, and 17 Antrim Tractors successfully from George Best City Airport, weathered the storm and export is the main focus of the Andrew is upbeat about their company with sales of tractors. future prospects.

“Our tractors and handlers Buying a used tractor from can be found in far flung places Andrew & Co is a customer such as Australia, Japan, Saudi friendly experience and they Arabia and South America,” boast plenty of satisfied Andrew proudly says. customers to prove it.

“We are only 12 miles from “Business generally picks up the local ferries in Larne, and Mid Antrim Tractors are based in Ballyclare, Co Antrim this time of year. We're involved 16 miles from the main Belfast in a competitive market but we train station,” Andrew added. strive to provide customers with “We can professionally peace of mind and will send arrange competitive worldwide them photographs and delivery for any tractor or information regarding their machine, to any major seaport tractor/order throughout each or business address and stage of the process in order to delivery can be arranged via keep them up to date. road, sea, air and rail,” Andrew “They can also view videos points out. that show our tractors at work Mid Antrim tractors also on our YouTube channel. supply all the relevant “We're very fortunate to have documentation with the tractor a loyal customer base. We get including a UK Registration a lot of repeat business, Certificate / V5 (if available), a especially in the export market, Certificate of Origin (if and the vast majority of our applicable), a customers use us frequently.

Continued Best Wishes To Mid Antrim Tractors, From ‘Certificate of They have given us their seal of Inspection and approval which is very Disinfection’ (if encouraging. required) and a “Experience, reliability and Certificate of being able to find what Conformity (subject to someone wants in our yard availability). would be the secrets of the “We have built up company's success.” knowledge and Should you require a experience in quotation for any tractor Mid shipping tractors Antrim Tractors have in stock around the world via container shipment with a loader or different and via roll on roll off,” attachments, accessories, Andrew adds, “and tyres, etc, doesn't hesitate to we actively trade in give them a call.

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

29

tommy murphy designed_Layout 1 11/06/2014 12:36 Page 1

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30

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

tommy murphy designed_Layout 1 11/06/2014 12:36 Page 2

Some of Tommy’s suckler calves

M

A champion veterinary practice

urphy Sheerin Veterinary Surgery in Baltinglass, Co. Wicklow is not just synonymous with quality healthcare for animals of all sizes; it is also closely associated with the GAA thanks to the success of practice coowner Tommy Murphy on the playing fields.

Tommy, who played football for Baltinglass, Wicklow and Leinster, is the only man in the history of Wicklow GAA to have won a staggering 13 county senior championship medals. He won his first in 1976 and last in 1994 when Baltinglass completed their famous eight-in-a-row.

However, the highlight of Tommy’s glittering playing career came in 1990 when he was player / manager of the Baltinglass side that defeated Clan na Gael of Roscommon by 2-7 to 0-7 to bring an historic AllIreland club title to the Garden County for the first and only time. It was a proud day at Croke Park for the Murphy family as IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Tommy was joined on the Baltinglass team by his brothers Con – who scored 2-3 from play – and Pat. Tommy was deployed in his customary third midfielder role, while Con was right corner forward and Pat was centre half back.

“We had an exceptional team,” the affable veterinary surgeon recalls.

“We probably didn’t realise it at the time, but when you look back and see all the success we had, we were obviously very good. It was a great time to be a

Lynne Cooke operating in the surgery

Baltinglass footballer. We were very close-knit which was hardly surprising considering we had three sets of brothers on our All-Ireland winning team – three Kennys (Billy, Hugh and Paul), two O’Briens (Kevin and Sean) and three Murphys.

“Sadly, the club hasn’t had the same amount of success in recent years and we’ve only won the senior championship once – in 2007 – in the past 19 years.

We’ve lost the last two county finals by a point to St. Pat’s of Wicklow and Rathnew respectively.

“But despite the fact that we’ve lost about seven starters from the 2012 final team for various reasons, we’d still be among the top two or three teams in Wicklow.

I managed our second team to a junior ‘A’ championship final victory over Kilmacanogue last year which means we are up intermediate this year. Ourselves and Rathnew are the only clubs to have teams in the top two grades.”

In addition to the success he enjoyed with his beloved club, Murphy garnered three Sigerson Cup medals in the colours of UCD in 1977, ’78 and ’79, lining out alongside football greats like

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tommy murphy designed_Layout 1 11/06/2014 12:36 Page 3

Jim Sheerin treats one of client Noel Foster’s animals

John McHugh working for client Benny Finlay

Meath’s Colm O’Rourke, Tony McManus of Roscommon and Dublin’s Pat O’Neill. He represented Wicklow at senior level for a decade and would surely have gone on for longer but for mounting work and family commitments.

Tommy was also selected to play for Leinster in the same three years as he won the Sigerson Cup, but Railway

Cup honours eluded him. His only regrets from a remarkable senior career which spanned 22 years from 1974 to ’96 were his failure not to have won more than one Leinster club medal with Baltinglass and Wicklow’s inability to challenge for major honours. He reckons they had their strongest team in 1986 when they won the O’Byrne Cup and two games

Christine Lennon takes another call

32

in the Leinster championship before losing to Meath in the semi-final.

Tommy’s three sons, Tommy jnr, Kevin and William, have followed in his footsteps by donning the Baltinglass jersey. While Tommy jnr and Kevin are current members of the club’s senior team, William’s playing career was sadly cut short due to a serious knee injury.

Married to Catherine for nearly 32 years, Tommy also has two daughters, Ruth and Mary.

Apart from the GAA, the Murphy name is synonymous with the veterinary profession in Baltinglass, which is situated in the south-west of Co. Wicklow and within a kick of a ball of the Carlow and Kildare boundaries. Tommy is carrying on a family tradition which began in the late 1940s when his late father Thomas arrived in Baltinglass from Straboe, Co. Carlow to set up the village’s first veterinary practice.

Thomas ran the practice up until his death in 1995, after which Tommy took over.

Then, in 2000, Jim Sheerin – who is married to Tommy’s sister Joan – joined as a partner and so it was renamed Murphy Sheerin Veterinary Surgery, having been known as Thomas Murphy Veterinary Practice prior to then.

“My father had to work extremely hard to get the practice established,” explains Tommy.

“It was tough going in the early days. I remember him telling me there were days when he got no call outs.

Gradually, though, things picked up for him and the practice is now well-known in the area. My father was very popular, something that was reflected in the huge crowds of people who came to his funeral to pay their final respects to him.”

After qualifying as a vet himself, Tommy spent three years working for Ironside & McDonagh Veterinary Clinic

in Ennistymon, Co. Clare before returning to the family practice in 1983. Tommy and Jim are joined in the practice by two other vets – John McHugh and Lynne Cooke.

Christine Lennon and Cora Shortt keep the show on the road by doing all the secretarial work and much more besides. Tommy’s aforementioned daughter Ruth is in charge of stocktaking.

Murphy Sheerin Veterinary Surgery is a mixed practice which treats both farm animals and pets.

“Large animals, such as cattle, horses and sheep, account for about 75 per cent of our business with small animals, such as dogs, cats and other family pets, accounting for the remaining 25 per cent. The number of small animals we treat has increased dramatically in recent years. But dairy, suckler cows and sheep remain our core business,” Tommy says.

A friendly veterinary practice which prides itself on providing the highest quality healthcare for your animal, Murphy Sheerin Veterinary Surgery offers a comprehensive 24-7 365 on call service to its clients, meaning a vet is only ever a phone call away.

Murphy Sheerin is a modern veterinary clinic, with fully equipped operating theatres, X-ray and gaseous anesthesia facilities. It boasts a large and loyal customerbase in south-west Wicklow which extends into the neighbouring counties of Carlow and Kildare.

CONTACT DETAILS

Murphy Sheerin Veterinary Surgery

Bawnogues, Baltinglass, Co. Wicklow.

Telephone: 059 648 1441 Fax: 059 648 1966 IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

teemore designed_Layout 1 18/06/2014 12:27 Page 1

Nicky (left) and dealer Denis O’Herlihy display some of Teemore’s products

T

Teemore: No. 1 in animal comfort

eemore Engineering Ltd is a leading manufacturer of cow cubicles and is the UK and Irish distributors for Jourdain livestock tubular products, Bioret mattresses and floorings systems, Richel storage tunnels and also distributes Easy-fix rubber products throughout the UK. Specialising in cattle, sheep, goat and equine equipment as well as general engineering, this Fermanagh based firm has established a reputation for providing a loyal and efficient service to a large customer base.

For this month’s edition of Irish Trucker, we profile the company and speak to Sales Manager Nicky Johnston about the services that they provide.

First, let’s take a look at the background of the business and to do so we IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

must go back over 40 years when Teemore Engineering Ltd was established in 1973 by Mr Victor Wilson (Director) producing car and tractor trailers and other agricultural products.

Over the years a definite line of quality

Teemore have been supplying their products since 1973

livestock equipment has evolved and the main focus today is fitting out all types of beef and dairy buildings.

The success of the business has been ongoing throughout the years and just two years ago, a purpose built factory and office suite was constructed at their site in Derrylin, Co Fermanagh, which ensures that they have the necessary facilities to remain a leader in the field of livestock equipment.

Teemore Engineering not only manufacture their own products, but they are the sole distributor for Jourdain livestock tubular products in Ireland and the UK. Along with Bioret mattresses and floorings systems, Richel storage tunnels and also distribute Easy-fix rubber products throughout the UK. “We would have 20 dealers throughout Ireland who sell our range of products. Our reputation certainly precedes us at this stage. There would

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Gerry Meade Best Wishes & Continued Success To TEEMORE ENGINEERING From

EQUIPMENT FOR ALL YOUR FARMING NEEDS Fintramore, Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare

Telephone: 086-8184168

www.calfhutch.com www.youtube.com/agriplastics info@calfhutch.com Continued Best Wishes To TEEMORE ENGINEERING Best Wishes & Continued Success To Teemore Engineering From

Old Dublin Rd, Enniscorthy, Co.Wexford Phone: 053- 92 37987 Email: info@enniscorthyfarmsystems.ie

www.enniscorthyfarmsystems.ie

AGENTS FOR TEEMORE IN THE SOUTH EAST

Mossie Lane Fabricators & Erectors of Farm & Industrial Buildings

Phone 068-31986 Mobile: 087-260 2386

Caherlane, Abbeyfeale, Co. Limerick Continued Best Wishes To Teemore Engineering Best Wishes To Teemore Engineering, From

Our Products Barriers & Gates | Feeders & Drinkers Mattresses | Cubicles | Equine Equipment Posts & Fittings Mileen, Kilbarry, Macroom, Co. Cork

T: (026) 43660 F (026) 43660 M (086) 2361245 E: denisoherlihyengineering@gmail.com www.denisoherlihyengineering.com

WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR COMPANY FEATURED IN Irish Tractor & Farm Machinery Magazine

Call Barry now on 00353 (0) 46 9241923 34

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

teemore designed_Layout 1 18/06/2014 12:27 Page 3

Teemore manufacture quality livestock equipment

be plenty of competition in this industry, but when it comes to quality, we would be unrivalled,” said Nicky.

“Our products would make up 25% of the cattle handling equipment market. We are the market leaders and our competitors would be trying to copy us, and it’s a full time job to remain innovative.”

Teemore’s strategy to Research, design, manufacture and distribute high quality livestock products which are fit for purpose has been one of the secrets to their success over the years.

“Our aim is to provide a quality product and achieve customer satisfaction with a dedicated customer care service, while we are also looking to establish growth in each market in which we are currently involved.”

Some of the innovative products designed by Teemore include the fast empty drinker designed and manufactured by Teemore and they developed an excellent reputation for comfort and quality amongst farmers.

“Our in-house manufacturing and the large stocks we carry give us the necessary flexibility to satisfy each and every need in a time that is acceptable.”

The success of the company can be gauged by the amount of repeat custom that they have on their books.

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

“The end user of our products are the Farmers and a lot of them would choose our products over other brands.

“We have service teams throughout Northern Ireland and we would do some installation work. If it makes the customer happy than we are pleased to do whatever it takes.”

Nicky revealed that Teemore Engineering have a site in the U.K where they manufacture and supply their range of products to a bigger market.

“The yard in Shropshire was set up 18 months ago and it’s been going very well. There is a bigger market in the U.K and we are pleased with the progress that we have made

over there.

“We have invested CONTACT DETAILS heavily in new machinery as we know that it is Teemore Engineering Ltd important to keep up Teemore with the latest Derrylin technology to help us Co Fermanagh produce an even better range of Tel: 028 6774 8377 products.”

ROI: 048 6774 8377 Recent trials have confirmed that the use Fax: 028 6774 8978 of hutches can bring ROI: 048 6774 8978 calf mortality rates down to 2%, or Email: possibly lower, under info@teemoreengineering.com the widest range farm Website: conditions. www.teemoreengineering.com “But this is only the starting point. It takes the quality of the plastic is a number of weeks for a calf’s such that the hutches block immune system to fully out the sun’s rays, thereby develop, during which time it ensuring that calves are not can become predisposed to a subject to wide variations in number of factors which can temperature. They are also lead to the onset of disease extremely robust, therefore and, subsequently, death. guaranteeing a long, usable “Increasingly, dairy farmers life.” now recognise that calf Teemore Engineering is an hutches tick all of these environmentally friendly boxes. In our own case, we company and are stock the Agri-Plastics’ range. continuously endeavouring to Manufactured in the United reduce their carbon footprint.

States, they come in single “We strive to continually and group calf rearing reduce our environmental options. impact by driving efficiencies “We opted for the Agriwithin each of our Plastics’ range because it is departments.

We endeavour the ‘gold standard’, in terms to recycle and use recycled of what’s on the market at the products where possible.” present time. For example,

K Mackin Transport Ltd Best Wishes & Continued Success To Teemore Engineering, From

FOR PART OR FULL LOADS TO AND FROM UK & EUROPE , COMPETITIVE RATES GIVEN

Banbridge, Co. Down BT32 3TA E: eddiemackin@fsmail.net or kmackintransport@aol.com Call +44 7966104632 or +44 7714951416 35

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Armstrong Machinery celebrates 60 years in business in 2014

A landmark year for Armstrong Machinery

T

o coincide with Armstrong Machinery Ltd.’s 60thanniversary celebrations, we dropped into their Lusk base and got an insight into the history and current well-being of this long-standing family business from director Charles Hutcheson.

Twenty-fourteen is a very special year for Armstrong Machinery Ltd.in Lusk, North County Dublin, which is celebrating 60 years in business. To mark the occasion, the family-run business has launched a special edition, titanium coloured New Holland T7 260 tractor,

36

which has created quite a stir, with many owners upgrading their ’13-reg vehicles to get their hands on this beautiful limitededition model.

Each special-edition tractor is graced with a rare titanium paint job and boasts additional features, including an upgraded grill imported from the UK and a stainless steel exhaust shield. The working lights bezels mounted on the rear of the cab are also colour-coded, while each 2014registered tractor comes with a customer nameplate in the cab.

The titanium New Holland - exclusive to Armstrong Machinery - features durable two-pack paint with metallic making it

CONTACT DETAILS Armstrong Machinery Ltd., The Five Roads, Lusk, County Dublin.

Phone: 01 8431130 Fax: 01 8431015

Email: armstronglusk@gmail.com www.armstrongmachinery.ie

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

armstrong designed_Layout 1 16/06/2014 12:53 Page 2

Best Wishes & Continued Success To ARMSTRONG MACHINERY From

more hard-wearing. Each tractor comes on Michelin tyres.

Providing an extensive range

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

of farm machines to the discerning Irish farmer for six decades now, Armstrong Machinery has been a New

Holland dealer since 1976 and, coincidentally, New Holland is also celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2014, with

a special 50th-anniversary edition of the iconic tractor also available.

Recently, Armstrong Machinery also became the agent and sole importer into Ireland of the award-winning George Moate Tillerstar so there was plenty to see and discuss at the company’s special anniversary Open Days on Friday, March 21st and Saturday, March 22nd!

New to the Irish market, the three-bed folding Tillerstar is a totally new concept for planting vegetable and root crops. A one-pass machine, it eliminates the need for a deep ridger, bed tiller and de-stoner in most soil types. It’s an ideal way to cut down on machinery, manpower, fuel and time!

Main dealer for New Holland, Kverneland, Kuhn, Heva, Berthoud, Knight, Lely, Twose, Sulky, Hi-Spec, NC, Tulip, Husqvarna, George Moate and Fleming, Armstrong Machinery Ltd. was established by Robert Armstrong in 1954. Alex

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Hutcheson joined as a salesman in 1964; became manager a decade later; and eventually bought the company out in 1985.

Today, the second generation of the Hutcheson family is at the helm, with Alex’s sons Charles and James and daughter Kate calling the shots. The objective of the owners is to continue to set and maintain the highest standards in sales coupled with an unrivalled back-up service, while providing the farming community with a range of machines to meet every possible requirement and budget.

In 2012, the business relocated to impressive new premises at The Five Roads, Lusk, County Dublin (Junction 5, off the M1), serving a

38

60-years of tractors at Armstrong Machinery

countrywide customer base from this state-of-the-art facility. The convenient, easilyaccessible location is just one of the many reasons why Armstrong Machinery is destined to maintain its status as the best-known and mostpopular farm machinery company in north-east Leinster.

The team at Armstrong Machinery doesn’t just sell farm machines. They also provide unrivalled machinery advice and a genuine, comprehensive back-up service through trained, experienced workshop and parts personnel.

The experienced sales team boasts a wealth of technical knowledge and practical experience of the full range of tractors, balers, harvesters

etc. offered, while the workshop is fronted by a fullyexperienced team of New Holland-trained mechanics who, between them, have a wide range of specialist expertise.

Stores manager Dessie Begg, for example, has over 40 years’ experience and the parts facility in Lusk can accommodate up to 10,000 line items at any time. Parts can be ordered via email and delivered across the region.

In total, gainful employment is provided to a team of 13.

Armstrong Machinery Ltd. has been synonymous with New Holland for almost four decades. “My father signed the first New Holland franchise in 1976,” Charles Hutcheson reflects. “In 1977, in his first year, he sold 70 new and

second-hand combines, and we’ve held the franchise ever since. For New Holland, we cover Dublin, East Meath and Louth.

“Our ethos is based on the service side of things. We believe that if you provide an excellent service, sales will follow on the back of that.

Everything we do is based on providing a good service to our customers. We have always provided a very strong backup service on everything that we sell and we have found that additional sales have followed that. By looking after people properly, you build up good loyalties and relationships.

“Consistently, over the long term, we have provided a good service and value for money. That’s an unbeatable combination.

We have invested heavily in our premises and employ the best mechanics in the business, using the latest diagnostic equipment.

“We carry a massive range of stock and farmers or contractors are free to drop into the showroom any time to take a look at what we have.

We’d have approximately €2.5m worth of stock here at any given time as well as €1.5m worth of parts. At the moment, we have eleven brand-new tractors and 23 second-hand ones ready to go.”

Charles Hutcheson believes more could be done to IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

armstrong designed_Layout 1 16/06/2014 12:53 Page 4

armstrong designed_Layout 1 16/06/2014 12:53 Page 5

promote the benefits of agricultural produce in Ireland: “The market is steady but there is a lot of uncertainty around the potato crop. On the whole, farming is steady, and we have never experienced a Celtic Tiger or a recession.

Food and vegetables are essential goods and we are at the start of the chain in terms of food production.

“But the IFA needs to do more to advertise the benefits of eating fresh vegetables and potatoes and to get rid of this myth that the potato is a fattening food. It’s a priceless natural resource at the end of the day and its image needs to be restored.”

Looking to the future, Charles says Armstrong Machinery won’t be resting on its laurels: “We are always on the look-out for something new,” he concludes. “If something new and beneficial comes on the market, then we will pursue it. Our aim is to supply farmers with products that will increase their efficiency and profitability. We attend all the trade shows across Ireland, the UK and Europe and we are always on the look-out for new products and new ideas.”

Sixty years on and it sounds like there’s still plenty of fuel in this particular tank!

A titanium coloured New Holland T7 260 tractor

40

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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A decade of driving excellence 42

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

o brien designed_Layout 1 17/06/2014 11:48 Page 2

The latest addition to the fleet

F

or ten years and counting, O’Brien Brothers Transport Ltd. has been providing a first-class service. Having started life as a livestock exportation specialist, the business has expanded and diversified to also embrace continental IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

refrigerated distribution.

Irish Tractor & Agri travelled to the company HQ in Ballyorgan, County Limerick to get an insight into the history and current well-being of this multifaceted operation.

Ten years ago, in Ballyorgan, Kilfinane, County

Limerick, Colm O’Brien established O’Brien Brothers Transport Ltd., having been involved in the transport industry for all his life prior to that. During the intervening decade, by providing an exceptional level of service, using the best fleet and personnel, Colm has overseen the steady growth of his business, which continues to go from strength to strength. It certainly looks like his decision to go out on his own was an inspired move!

“I had always been involved in livestock and I saw an opening to provide a transport service,” the company founder reflects. “I bought my first lorry in 2004 with the intention of hauling livestock to Europe and within twelve months I had expanded the fleet to three lorries, all approved for continental work.”

In no time at all, O’Brien Bros Trans Ltd. became renowned for the international transportation of livestock. But Colm had

identified another opening in the market and, in 2008; he diversified into a second area of expertise.

Today, his company specialises in both livestock and refrigerated transport from Ireland to the UK, mainland Europe and North Africa.

“To expand the fleet, I saw an opportunity in the market to diversify and move into refrigerated transportation” Colm explains. “I began the refrigerated division of the

CONTACT DETAILS

O’Brien Brothers Transport Ltd.

Ballyorgan, Kilfinane, County Limerick.

Tel: 063 91763 Fax: 063 91696 Mobile: 086 8270474 Email: colmobrientransport@ gmail.com

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McCarthy Commercials Ltd Dealer for Volvo Trucks

STOCKISTS OF VOLVO TRUCK/ BUS PARTS & TRAILER COMPONENTS HGV VEHICLE TEST CENTRE 24 HOUR CALL OUT SERVICE

VOLVO TRUCKS

www.mccarthycomms.ie

Watergrasshill, Co. Cork | Tel: 021 4889700 Danville Business Park, Ring Rd., Kilkenny| Tel: 056 7734200 Gillogue, Clonlara, Co. Clare | Tel: 061 356360

BEST WISHES TO O’BRIEN BROTHERS TRANSPORT

GILES

Best Wishes & Continued Success To O’Brien Brothers Transport, From

INTERNATIONAL TRANSPORT

REFRIGERATED TRANSPORT Burgatia, Rosscarbery, Co. Cork

Contact John on 086-8042425

Email: gilestransportross@eircom.net

Alan McSweeney Agri Contractor

Kilcooney, Knockanevin, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick

O’Sullivan Tyres STOCKS ALL LEADING BRANDS OF TYRES

24 HOUR MOBILE BREAKDOWN SERVICE

Unit 8, Ballydaheen Industrial Estate, Mallow, Co. Cork

Tel: (022) 50394 • Fax: (022) 20666 Mobile: (086) 2600482/(087) 2600482

HANRAHAN

Wishing Continued Success To O’Brien Brothers Transport From

TRANSPORT

HAULAGE & LIVESTOCK Telephone: 087-2734176 Ballyadock, Ballindangan, Mitchelstown Co. Cork

Wishing O’Brien Brothers Transport Good Fortune & Continued Success

Castlekevin, Mallow, Co. Cork

HUNTER INTERNATIONAL LIVESTOCK LTD

LIVESTOCK IMPORTER & EXPORTER Cornhill, Fermoy, Co. Cork T: 025-38647 F:025-38648 Castlekevin, Mallow, Co. Cork T:022-26228 F:022-26824 Email: hunterinternationallivestock@gmail.com

Tel:087-9089382

E:alanmcsweeneyagri@gmail.com

Best Wishes & Continued Success To O’Brien Brothers Transport

Wishing Continued Success To O’BRIEN BROTHERS TRANSPORT From Kilglass, Mitchelstown, Co.Cork.

T: 025 84054 M: 086 2534406 44

Best Wishes & Continued Success To O’Brien Brothers Transport, From

E: gearylivestock@yahoo.com

Trainor Transport International Livestock & General Transport 4, Ard na Mul, Lis na dara, Carrick Road, Dundalk Tel: 0044 28 30266061 Mobile: 00353 87 2534406 Fax: 0044 28 30260794 E: trainortransport@aol.com

www.trainortransport.com

Best Wishes To O’BRIEN BROTHERS TRANSPORT IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

o brien designed_Layout 1 17/06/2014 11:48 Page 4

O’Brien Brothers Transport in Morocco

business by hauling fish to Spain, then meat to Italy and lamb to France.”

The refrigerated division of the business has increased steadily and complements the livestock work perfectly – even though on some levels they are two completely different types of distribution.

At present, Colm own and operates a fleet of seven units and he has just collected the keys to a new Volvo from McCarthy Commercial in Watergrasshill (which is being used to draw meat to Italy). There are also plans to upgrade a couple of the livestock trailers. Colm provides gainful employment to a team of seven – a nice boost for the local economy in these difficult times.

“O’Brien Brothers Transport currently operate three livestock trailers, transporting calves to the veal market in Spain and The Netherlands, dairy to the UK and weanlings to Italy,” Colm states.

“Both divisions of the business are busy.

The business is largely involved in export, from all over Ireland (mainly in the Munster area) to the UK, Europe and North Africa.” Even though Colm has steered his transportation business through a period of economic recession, he is keen to point out that the conditions that prevail in Ireland are not exactly beneficial to those involved in continental work. “Business has been tough with rising costs and the extra £10 per day on trucks going through the UK has made it even tougher,” he says.

“The introduction of the fuel rebate has been beneficial and the IRHA are IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

lobbying for a fairer road tax system for lorries. The current system is antiquated.

“The majority of my lorries spend most of their time on the continent so the present taxation system – which dates back to the 1950s – doesn’t really apply to us. It is unfair on the international haulier and the current system is not fit for purpose.

“We would prefer a pay-as-you-go system like the one that has been introduced in the Benelux countries. It’s surely time to introduce a system that is fairer than paying €5,000 tax here in Ireland for each of the livestock lorries and also have to pay other road user charges outside of Ireland as well.

I would appeal to the current elected representatives to review the system as it is and introduce change.”

Colm remains very much a hands-on managing director, although he admits he doesn’t get behind the wheel as often as he used to. This is because there are too many other things to focus on.

“I don’t drive that much anymore because there’s a lot of work to be done in the office,” he confirms. “I focus on the day-to-day running of the business; I have to be mindful that the majority of my business is outside of Ireland so this requires consideration of distance, language, currency and time zone differences when dealing with my customers and their requirements.

Then there’s organising the ferry

bookings and looking after the scheduling and maintenance of the lorries.

A lot of time goes into managing the business, so I’ve hired a very strong team of drivers and I leave the driving up to them.”

O’Brien Brothers Transport is very much a family run business with Colm’s wife Majella also involved in day to day operations. The newest addition to the family and no doubt to the business is Colm & Majella’s little girl Michaela.

Looking to the future, Colm intends to keep growing the business.

“Long term, one of my plans is to build an on-site garage with a wash bay.

My focus is very much on expanding the livestock and refrigerated divisions of the business, I believe there is scope for further growth in both areas. I brought a new lorry on May 1st and I am keen to consistently upgrade and expand my existing fleet.

Businesses must continual adapt and diversify to compete in today’s market and I will continue to drive my business forward to meet the needs of my customers”.

Hard work, determination and perseverance are the factors behind this successful business and O’Brien Brothers Transport will be driving on gaining new ground in this market for years to come.

Best To Wishes ers Broth O’Brien ort sp an Tr

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T. Nolan & Sons Ltd. Droumtrasna, Castleisland, Co. Kerry.

T. Nolan & Sons Ltd.

R&H HALL

Wishing Continued Success To Rhyno Mills From

Tel: (066) 7141140 Fax: (066) 7141777 Email: tnolan@tnolans.com

RHYNO MILLS

Delighted To Be Associated With

Best Wishes To Rhyno Mills, From

R&H Hall is Irelands leading importer and supplier of animal feed ingredients for feed manufacturing through its extensive trading, purchasing, shipping and storage capability.

La Touche House, Custom House Dock IFSC, Dublin 1 Tel: +353 1- 790 0200 Fax: +353 1- 790 0202 Email: info@rhhall.ie www.rhhall.ie

Congratulations To Rhyno Mills Harbour Road, Foynes, Co. Limerick T: 069 65311 F: 069 65537

E: info@premiermolasses.ie

www.premiermolasses.ie

46

Premier Molasses is Ireland’s leading supplier of liquid feeds for the animal feed sector.

Irish Tractor & Farm Machinery Magazine

Call Barry now on 00353 (0) 46 9241923

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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The staff at Rhyno

I

Rhyno take action

t is every company’s aim to continuously look at ways to improve the service that they provide their customers, even businesses that have been operating since the dawn of time!

One such firm is Kerry based Rhyno

Quality Feeds, which has been supplying animal feeds to an extensive customer base since early in the twentieth century.

Having being established so long, the team at Rhyno Mills could be forgiven for just keep on doing what they have been

Office staff from left to right: Georgina Henry, Paudie O’Connor (MD), Laura Moriarty, John Naughton IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

doing for many, many years. However, that is certainly not the case as Managing Director Paudie O’Connor told this month’s edition of Irish Tractor and Agri.

Success is often gauged by longevity and to that end, not many can rival

James Murphy and Paudie O’Connor have continued to improve the business

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Congratulations to Rhyno Mills

Best Wishes & Continued Success To RHYNO MILLS

NPP is the largest supplier of flexible packaging in Ireland.

Industries supplied: Fertiliser, Horticulture, and Animal Feed among many more.

Products include: Heavy Duty Plastic Sacks/ Tubing, Flat Films, Shrink/ Stretch Hooding & Pallet Wrap

Suppliers of Industrial Flexible Bulk Packaging

Unit 509 Mitchelstown Road, Northwest Business Park, Ballycoolin, Dublin 15.

T 00 353 1 880 9299 F 00 353 1 880 9298 E: sales@npp.ie www.npp.ie

Donagh O Shea, Account Manager

GENERAL HAULAGE CONTRACTOR

Office: +353 (0) 21 4353017 Fax: + 353 (0) 21 4354074 Mobile: +353 (0) 87 9892025 Email: donagh.oshea@greif.com www.greif-flexibles.com

Ballaugh, Killarney, Co. Kerry • T: 064- 66 32661 F: 064- 66 32631 • Mobile: 087- 2934466

Greif 3003 Euro Business Park, Little Island, Co. Cork

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Rhyno Mills

LICENSED HAULIER | NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL NATIONWIDE SERVICE

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Rhyno Mills

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Rhyno Mills, From

Ireland’s National Recruitment Agency FRS Recruitment Moanmore, Tralee Road Castleisland, Co. Kerry Tel: +353 (0)66-7143995 Email: kerry@frsrecruitment.com www.frsrecruitment.com Congratulations and well done to Paudie and all at Rhyno Mills WE ARE HONOURED TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH THIS PROGRESSIVE AND AWARD WINNING COMPANY SINCE 1981.

HORGAN BARRETT & CO.

Evergreen House, Congress Road, Cork.

Tel:021-4968722 Fax:021-4968952 E: info@horganbarrett.ie www.horganbarrett.ie

Registered Auditors & Accountants 48

(Ireland) Ltd Monahan Road, Cork Telephone: 021-4312798

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SHEEHAN RYAN & COMPANY Best Wishes To Rhyno Mills From SOLICITORS

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in the business and the first steps to put a system in place have been taken,” stated Paudie.

The company also took on a marketing campaign that has proved successful, while all this led to Rhyno Quality Feeds winning the ‘2014 Best Retailer Award’ at the Action Coach Business forum awards night.

Rhyno Mills was one of six finalists in its category at the two-day forum where leading business experts shared their views. Paudie revealed the animal feed company was delighted to have received

Posing for the camera are from l/r: Mark Collins, Vincent Behan, John Naughton, Paudie O’Connor (MD), Joe O’Connor, Darren Hanly, Jerry Daly, Ger Harnett, Connie Horan

quality of service that we Rhyno as it enters its 95th year following its established provide our customers and in 1919 when Paudie’s we found out about Action grandfather William Coach,” said Paudie.

O’Connor re-opened the mill “Helen Burns from Action in Castleisland after it had Coach has been working with been closed for a number of us for just over a year now years. and basically her role is to go Rhyno produce high quality through every aspect of the animal feeds for dairy cows, business and look at areas beef cattle, calves and sheep. where we can improve.

They are one of the few “The transformation since independent companies still she came on board has been operating in this industry in huge. There is great potential Ireland.

To ensure the Congratulations and continued success future of the business, a progressive minded Paudie and his fellow director Joseph O’Connor have been undertaking and extensive programme to help improve the business.

Action Coach is a business coaching firm that according to Paudie has helped transform Rhyno Quality feeds in a very short space of time.

“We were looking at ways of improving the business and the IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Paudie and Joe O’Connor display their award

from

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MATFLO Best Wishes & Continued Success To RHYNO MILLS From

Matflo Engineering Ltd. MECHANICAL ENGINEERS Newberry, Mallow, Co. Cork.

Tel: 022-21495 | Fax: 022-21030 Email: matfloengineering@gmail.com

Best Wishes & Continued Success To RHYNO MILLS

Suppliers of pelleting consumables and equipment to compound feed THE PELLETING and SOLUTIONS Biomass Industries.

PROVIDER

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Rhyno Mills

E-Mail: info@cfegroup.com

www.cfegroup.com

WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR COMPANY FEATURED IN

Irish Tractor & Farm Machinery Magazine

Call Barry now on 00353 (0) 46 9241923

50

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

rhyno mills designed_Layout 1 20/06/2014 10:31 Page 6

the award as it acknowledges all the effort that everyone in the company has put in.

“With the introduction of new plant and systems we have doubled our production capacity and further enhanced the quality of our feeds and the award was for everyone in the company that have worked so hard to make the improvements possible.”

The summer months are a quieter period for Rhyno as animals need less feed, but Paudie feels that could all change once the milk quota goes next year.

“We would be kept going during the summer as dairy farmers are always feeding their cows in order to improve the milk yield, but certainly when the quota goes next year I can see an increase in sales during the summer months.”

Rhyno Quality Feeds’ customer base covers most of the Munster region, and in particular Kerry, Cork and Limerick, to get to their customers, they have their own trucks that deliver to stockists and farmers alike.

Joe O’Connor, Helen Burns, Paudie O’Connor worked together to gain the ‘Best Retailer Award’

All Rhyno’s ingredients are bought from approved suppliers to ensure that they produce a quality feed, which has earned rave reviews across Munster.

“We source our ingredients from reputable suppliers and always have done. We know that if the customer is not happy with the product, they will just go elsewhere, so it is up to us to ensure that we produce a quality product.”

Rhyno produce coarse and mixed feeds which means

James and Paudie either side of an old staff photo IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

A selection of goods available at Rhyno

coming year. they have a double productions of feeds, which “We are delighted with the all come in bulk, mini direction that the company is bulk and 25kg plastic heading, and we are already sealed bags. working on the next stage of “All products can improving the business. either be collected at There are a number of areas the mill, delivered or still to be worked on and it is they are available from challenging, but it is our 13 stockists something that we are throughout the looking forward to working province,” added on.”

Paudie.

The work with Action Coach CONTACT DETAILS has just begun and Paudie Telephone: (+353) 66 7141205 stressed that Message service after there is still working hours: (+353) 66 7141330 plenty to be Email: rhynomills@eircom.net done over the

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This new harvester is part of the team

T

Conly Agri makes the cut

he summer months are upon us and in the farming community that points to one thing, making silage.

The adverse weather conditions in Ireland mean that cutting silage is not a

procedure that can be achieved at the same time every year, but when we do get ‘dry spells’, it is essential for agricultural contractors to move quickly.

To do this, they need a modern and efficient fleet of machinery that will stand up to the demands of this hectic period.

For over 40 years, Robert Sloane provided a top quality service to a large customer base as the agricultural contractor built up a reputation for reliability and efficiency.

During the last 15 years, David Conly ran Robert Sloane’s operation and when his boss decided to sell on the business, David saw this as an opportunity to branch out on his own and he took over the business himself.

“I took over the business in January this year and its been a case of so far, so good. There was already a big customer

CONTACT DETAILS

David Conly

Mullin, Ballybay, Monaghan Mob: (086)8743188

52

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

conly agri designed_Layout 1 16/06/2014 14:51 Page 2

base there, and we do silage work as well as slurry and a small bit of reseeding,” said David.

Based in Ballybay, Co Monaghan, Conly Agri Contractors’ customer base covers parts of Monaghan, Louth and Meath and David revealed that to ensure customer satisfaction it was important to get the job done as quickly as possible.

“The main aim is to get in and get the job done as quick as you can. With the weather being so unpredictable, there is only a small window of opportunity to make silage, so it is a case of working 24/7 during that period.

“I have a modern fleet of machinery that which is very up to date and this avoids any unnecessary breakdowns that may occur. During the summer months, there are ten lads working here, while off-peak, I’d have two permanent lads.”

Regarding debt and its management, David has a

Robert Sloane is continually investing in the business

strict policy: he always pay his bills in full and on time.

Diesel is paid for monthly, while machinery repayments are structured to match cash flow. His aim is not to change a machine before it has been paid for. David’s customer credit policy is sensible and fair. They do not bill

customers upon completion of a job, but rather leave it for a week to 10 days as they feel an immediate bill can look a 'a bit pushy'.

Generally each customer pays at the same time each

year. They try and avoid working for customers who change contractor every year since these jobs generally get awarded to the cheapest contractor and usually prove hardest to get paid from.

Conly Agri Contractors making the most of a dry spell IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Best Wishes To Conly Agri, From

Curtis Coffins prides itself and is renowned for it's top quality Irish manufactured caskets and coffins.

Bohernamoe, Ardee, Co. Louth.

Best Wishes To Conly Agri, From

T: +353 41- 6853208 M: + 353 87- 0624014 F :+353 41- 6857886 www.curtiscoffins.ie

www.jpflowersmonaghan.ie Market Street, Monaghan, Co. Monaghan.

Tel: 047-76677 email:sales@jpflowersmonaghan.ie

Best Wishes To Conly Agri, From

David Mackarel Wishing Conly Agri Every Success In The Future From

Agricultural Contractor

Tonnyglasson, Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan Tel: 042-9749744 | Fax: 042-9751885 Email: dooham@eircom.net

ROBERT SLOAN Best Wishes To Conly Agri, From

CONCRETE PUMPING

36 Metre Boom

Ballybay, Co. Monaghan

Contact Robert Sloan

(00353) 86-2708337

Anderson Auto Electrics Best Wishes To Conly Agri, From

Cornawall, Smithboro, Co. Monaghan

Commercial & Agricultural Electrical Repairs Accessory Fittings & Servicing

Corbrack, Ballybay, Co. Monaghan

086-2630390 042-9741428

Best Wishes To Conly Agri, From All At

FOR ALL YOUR BUSINESS & FINANCIAL NEEDS

Services Available

AUDIT & ASSURANCE | COMPANY SECRETARIAL BUSINESS ADVISORS| TAX COMPLIANCE & PLANNING

Lakeview House, 27 North Road, Monaghan.

Tel: (047) 81022 Fax: (047) 84123 Email: info@mcardlecassidymcquaid.ie

www.mcardlecassidymcquaid.ie

DOWN TO EARTH SERVICE

Special Offers On Fitting Of 2 way radios, CBs, Work Lamps. LEDs etc.

Contact Stephen 086-8097065

Email: andersona.e@hotmail.com

Wishing Conly Agri Every Success 54

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

conly agri designed_Layout 1 16/06/2014 14:51 Page 4

From a health and safety viewpoint, David insists they will not run a machine without a PTO cover in place. Staff are not allowed to wear baggy clothes which may become entangled in a machine and all staff must wear steel-toe boots.

Drivers have adequate training on a machine before being sent to operate it.

The aim is to match an operator's responsibility with his/her experience.

David is also a member of the Farming Contractors of Ireland (FCI).It’s main aim as an organisation is to provide a fair playing field for contractors North and South of the border. They will lobby government bodies at local, national and EU level on their members behalf. They are open to all contractors, both large and small. They want the small contractor to be as much involved in the

organisation as the big contractor.

“FCI is owned and run by its members for its members. We will educate ourselves at FCI as well as help educate and advise all our member contractors.

The FCI aims to make local branches as active as possible and to facilitate group discussion and possible group action on issues that affect their businesses.”

David revealed that he has no plans to expand the business at present as he continues to find his feet as the owner of the company.

“I have no plans to expand for the time being at least. You have to take a cautious approach when taking on extra work, but the farmers that I’m working for now, are the ones that I’ve been dealing with since I first started working with Robert.

David’s great strength of being financially sensible and adopting the latest machinery will ensure he remains a viable contracting business for years to come.

Aside from the agricultural contracting, David is also a funeral undertaker, a role he has been doing for the past 12 years.

Continued Best Wishes To Conly Agri, From

Byrne’s Bros Best Wishes To Conly Agri, From

Agri Contractors

Ardee, Co. Louth

Continued Best Wishes To Conly Agri

Chambers Agri-Contracts Ltd Best Wishes To Conly Agri, From

Specialise In

PLOUGHING & SOWING ALL CEREAL CROPS | HARVESTING SILAGE WHOLECROP & MAIZE | COMBINE HARVESTING | PLANT HIRE HEDGE CUTTING & TREE SERVICES

Latton, Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan

Tel: 087-2503773 | 087-2750825 | 087-1479128 IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Contact David on 086-3850525 Continued Best Wishes To Conly Agri, From

Feragh, Dunraymond, Co. Monaghan

Tel: 086-3351438 55

Rossmore designed_Layout 1 16/06/2014 17:41 Page 1

Fertiliser hoists

A

Tine Grabs

A shear grab

Support Irish Support Rossmore

s the only manufacturer of tractor front loaders in the country, Rossmore Engineering Limited are asking farmers to buy Irish. And you won't regret it because Rossmore's products are renowned for their reliability and quality while the interest of the customer always comes first.

In existence over 30 years, Rossmore Engineering Limited is a family owned business whose name is synonymous with quality and innovation in the design of agricultural machinery.

Set up in 1980 by William J. Carroll, the

Clonoulty, Cashel, Co Tipperary-based company manufactures a wide range of products - loaders, implements, tankers, agitators, conditioners, hoists and

Double bale handlers

56

Colour coded loaders

feeders - which it sells to the domestic and international market.

Prior to setting up the company, Willie Joe was in the sales and services of farm

Agitators IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Rossmore designed_Layout 1 16/06/2014 17:41 Page 2

machinery through the retail company William J. Carroll Ltd. which is still in existence and based alongside Rossmore Engineering.

It was based on experience

and observation of farming trends that Rossmore Engineering was established.

Since then it has become second nature to them to help their customers improve

An FL Series front loader

Conditioners IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

A vacuum tanker

efficiency and, in the process, reduce their CONTACT DETAILS costs.

The Carroll family are Rossmore Engineering very much hands on in the current operation. Willie Clonoulty Joe, the founder remains Cashel in close contact with all Co. Tipperary aspects of the business Tel: +353 (0) 50 44 2230 and the addition of his Email: info@rossmoreeng.ie sons, Jerry, Denis and Joseph, has added new, young and fresh ideas in product range also includes helping drive on the slurry tankers which come in business. all different shapes, sizes and And, as the only Irish capacities. manufacturer of front “Two distinctive features of loaders, the company has our tankers are that we established an excellent galvanise all our tankers and reputation for product there is a large rear opening reliability and quality which at the back door of each is second to none. tanker,” Jerry added.

“All our products are “The tanker market is guaranteed Irish,” Jerry extremely competitive with up Carroll points out. to 20 different manufacturers “Front Loaders are our between the north and south core business and all the of the country but we like to various attachments that think that we stay ahead of comes with them. We're our competitors.” competing against imported This is achieved through machines but we're well working closely with the known throughout Ireland. farming community and “We've a good name for continuously developing and robustness, all our products upgrading their projects to are well built while simplicity make farming easy and more and reliability would be the economical for its customers key words when it comes to The company's premises is describing our products.” located in the heart of the The company's extensive Golden Vale and consists of

57

Rossmore designed_Layout 1 16/06/2014 17:41 Page 3

EPT are very proud of their assocation with Rossmore Engineering over the last 30 years.

We wish them continued success in the future

Pollerton Ind. Estate, Carlow Tel:059-9143300 Fax:059-9141302 Email: sales@ept-irl.com www.ept-irl.com

Contact us today for all your Workshop & Garage Equipment needs!

Great Products at Great Prices SERVICING INDUSTRY IN IRELAND FOR OVER 35 YEARS

The Hydraulic Hose & Fittings Specialists

MILORE TRADING LTD

Congratulations To Rossmore Engineering Milore Trading Ltd - Distributors of

Intertraco Hose & Fittings | Adaptors | Tube Fittings & Steel Quick Release Couplings | Valves | Industrial Hose Hydraulic Hose Assemblies

Email: sales@milore.ie

www.milore.ie

2 Park West Drive, Park West Industrial Estate, Dublin 12

Telephone: (01) 626 9100

Fax: (01) 626 9090

ALLIED INDUSTRIAL COATINGS LTD.

BURNSIDE HYDRACYL (BALLYMOON) LTD Manufacturers of Agricultural and Industrial Cylinders for O.E.M. Customers all over Europe.

Registered ISO9001/EN29001 Company

Excellence of service plus high quality of product enables Burnside Cylinders to be specified on top class machinery throughout Europe and beyond.

BALLYMOON, BAGENALSTOWN, CO. CARLOW. TEL: 059-9721739 FAX:059-9721830

Continued success to all at Rossmore Engineering, from

Unit 2, Ground Floor, Riverside, Whitestown Industrial Estate, Tallaght, Dublin 24 Tel: +353 (0) 14627 946 Fax: +353 (0) 14628 394 Email: aicpaints@eircom.net

Website:

www.aicpaints.ie

GALVANIZING / PAINTING / BLASTING

FOR ALL YOUR COATING REQUIREMENTS

Shannonside Galvanizing, Four Elms, Drombanna, Co. Limerick

Tel: 061- 412357 Fax: 061- 415853

www.shannonsidegalv.com

Email: dermotobrien@shannonsidegalv.com Email: michaeloconnor@shannonsidegalv.com

Best Wishes To Rossmore Engineering

58

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Rossmore designed_Layout 1 16/06/2014 17:41 Page 4

6600 square metres, fully equipped with modern automated tooling plant and material handling equipment.

The Carroll-run operation, which provides employment to 35, produces a wide range of products which it sells to the domestic and international market via a dealership network of approximately 150.

“We're fortunate to have a very loyal customer base and a strong dealer network but there are hallenges. Running costs is one of the biggest, keeping overheads under control while trying to be as competitive as possible is a delicate balancing act.

“Surviving the down turn since 2008 was the biggest challenge.

Everyone's output diminished but we're trying to get back to where we were. Our future plans would include expansion of our premises and updating our machinery but we have to try to build our turnover up again.”

'Learn from the past and look to the future' is the company's motto and Jerry has witnessed encouraging green shoots of recovery in recent times.

“Business has bounced back somewhat. We saw a little bit of growth in 2013 and, hopefully, we will see a little more in this coming year.”

As regards the family's other business, WJ Carroll Machinery & Sales Service is now a recognised dealer for a number of machinery and engineering companies.

That arm of the business commenced trading on a small scale in 1974. It was the servicing skills of Willie Joe hat provided the basis for the creation of a successful retail farm machinery

service.

When the level of part time work that Willie Joe was doing started to interfere with his regular job, both he and his wife Sarah knew it was decision time. They took the strong and confident decision to go it alone and the business of WJ Carroll’s Ltd. was established.

And they have had no reason to look back since as they are currently main agents for Rossmore Engineering, Landini tractors, Morra Mowers, Rauch Fertilizer spreaders, Ossella and Uni-Green Sprayers, NC Trailers and Cashel Engineering.

WJ Carroll Machinery & Service Sales also source and supply any other machinery required (both new and second hand) by their customers to which they back up their machinery trade with a fully qualified trained staff.

SL series front loaders

Best Wishes To Rossmore Engineering

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Rossmore Engineering From

Calf feeders IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Kiltimagh, Co. Mayo.

T: +353 94-9381377 F: +353 94-9381615 Email: info@genfitt.ie 59

Oakleaf designed_Layout 1 17/06/2014 16:19 Page 1

Oakleaf Forestry has forged a great reputation for itself since its inception

Ireland’s No.1 supplier of forestry machinery 60

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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I

reland’s leading supplier of CONTACT DETAILS f i r e w o o d processing and Oakleaf Forestry timber harvesting and f o r w a r d i n g Portadown, machinery, Oakleaf County Armagh.

Forestry has carved a Tel: 0044 7977210592 niche for itself in the Email: info@oakleafforestry.com marketplace since its www.oakleafforestry.com inception eight years ago. We met up with founder / proprietor machines.

Joe Litter to get an Oakleaf imports and insight into the day-todistributes forestry machinery day operations at from all the leading brands, Ireland’s leading including Palax, Kesla, supplier of machinery to Kranman Rexon, Hypro, the timber industry.

Oakleaf Forestry is a premier firewood production and forestry equipment distribution company which supplies some of Europe’s finest farm and forestry machinery. The County Armagh based operation offers a complete, marketleading product range of modern low–impact forestry machinery - tough, reliable, fuel-efficient and servicefriendly machines that are as easy on the operator as they are on the forest.

The range of equipment distributed includes forestry chippers, trailers and cranes; firewood processors; harvesting and processing equipment; mini harvesters and forwarders; log splitters and conveyors; and kindling

Vimek, Dorn-Tec, Collino and Rabaud.

Joe Litter set the company up close to Portadown, County Armagh in 2006. “I had always been involved in the agri engineering industry and the company was set up in response to what people were asking for,” he explains.

“We started off by sourcing and distributing firewood machinery. In the beginning, we were mainly importing and distributing Palax equipment but the range grew as customers started to ask for other machines. We added bigger, heavier machines to the range, including professional log splitters and timber trailers and cranes.

“From there we expanded to provide a solution to harvesting contractors who were looking for new and

Oakleaf imports and distributes all the leading brands IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Continued Success To Joe Litter & Oakleaf Forestry from

www.vimek.se Phone: +46-933 135 15

Best Wishes To Oakleaf Forestry

WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR COMPANY FEATURED IN Irish Tractor & Farm Machinery Magazine

Call Barry now on 00353 (0) 46 9241923 62

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Oakleaf designed_Layout 1 17/06/2014 16:19 Page 4

more economical harvesting equipment. We have recently taken on two new brands from Sweden – Hypro and Vimek.

Hypro specialises in tractor processors, while Vimek specialises in small, lightweight, low-impact harvesters and forwarders. We provide exclusive distribution in Ireland for both and also cover the UK for Hypro.”

Hypro manufactures the fastest and most effective tractor processors on the market - a range of machines designed to appeal equally to contractors and to farmers and self-employed forest owners. Hypro machines combine kindness to the environment with high capacity and reliability while remaining a very affordable solution to smaller scale harvesting jobs.

Vimek, meanwhile, produces a range of mini–forwarders and harvesters which have the all benefits of hydraulic loaders but none of the drawbacks found in their larger counterparts. This type of equipment is attractive because it offers much lower capital outlay with a fraction of the running costs and allows contractors to operate in woodlands that

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

The Armagh company offers a market-leading range of modern low-impact forestry machinery

would not permit the use of large conventional harvesters and forwarders.

Mini–forwarders are ideal for serving small woods and estates where low impact systems are preferred. They are easily transported between sites using a 4×4 and trailer yet have terrain capability equal to larger purpose-built units.

Vimek’s harvesters boast a dual turning function: they can pivot both in the centre and at the front axle, which gives

extreme manoeuvrability that allows the operator to adapt the driving to the forest instead of the other way around.

“There’s a lot of small, private forestry in Ireland and the UK, and Vimek and Hypro machinery is ideal for that,” Joe notes. “These machines are tailored towards smaller harvesters and environmentally sensitive sites. They have low fuel consumption and have minimal impact on the environment and

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on the ground. This is a niche marker that we have identified and we are servicing it with a fantastic range of machines.

“We also have a range of smaller equipment for farmers operating on a small scale, such as PTO saw benches and log splitters, while Dorn-Tec from Germany manufactures cone splitters to fit on diggers which are a great way of breaking timber down so that it can fit through a processor or wood chipper.”

A nationwide service is provided, covering the 32 counties.

“We operate throughout Ireland and would have customers from Kerry to Derry,” says the company MD. “In fact, most of our customers would be in the south.

“We always have the machines in stock here as well as spare parts and we offer a reliable back-up service. We are very, very fussy and selective about what we stock. It has to be the best stuff … otherwise we won’t bring it to the market.

“If there is something I’m

The Palax Power 100 S

interested in, I will go and see it at the supplier’s factory and see it perform there, and if satisfied, we will bring in a sample put it through a rigorous testing in one of my customers’ sites. We test all the machines ourselves in very difficult ground conditions, so we know for a fact that we are only

Kesla is one of the many brands stocked

64

distributing the best equipment that money can buy.

“I won’t sell something that I don’t know everything about.

I always try to have the answers to any questions that customers can ask me. We look all over Europe, especially in Germany and Scandinavia, in our quest to

find new machines. We think long and hard before adding a new product, but if it’s right, we will introduce it to our product range.”

As for the back-up service, Joe adds: “For most of the products, this is very straightforward and we have a wealth of experience and I can normally diagnose most problems over the phone. If it’s a major problem, we will have a man out the following day or the even the same day if possible and we will have the machine up and running in next to no time.

“We also have very good relations with our suppliers and they will go out of their way to assist us or any of our customers. They give great back-up. With modern IT, it’s not that difficult to provide a strong back-up service and we certainly don’t fall short in this department.”

All in all, Joe is delighted to report that the business is in a good place at the moment.

“Things are going well,” he confirms. “We are very particular about the machines we supply. We insist on highquality products because quality sells. The quality of a machine will be remembered long after the price is forgotten.

“We deliver on time and we provide operator training if necessary. There’s no point just handing a customer the keys to a new machine that they have no experience with – we will also teach him how to operate and maintain the machine efficiently and effectively.”

Looking to the future, Joe says he would like to expand the product range and dealer network: “I will keep looking for new machines to add to the product range,” he concludes. “We plan to expand and maybe get more local dealers in each province in Ireland – as well as in the UK – to give customers local access to sales, service and support.”

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

phil bennis designed_Layout 1 17/06/2014 12:30 Page 1

A

Happy as pigs in muck

market leader in the supply and installation of equipment to the modern day pig farm, Phil Bennis & Son Ltd's Managing Director Philip Bennis tells Irish Tractor & Agri why their products are very much in demand.

If your agricultural business is producing for the meat trade, then you know that yield and quality is critical to success.

Having the right equipment for breeding, raising and managing pigs for the meat trade can increase yields and quality, enabling producers to compete effectively in a global marketplace.

Phil Bennis and his team source and import state-of-the-art equipment and machinery from around the world to supply to some of Ireland's most successful meat and pig producers.

Established in 1985 by Phil and Mary Bennis, the family-run business has six full-time employees including sons Philip and Eoghan and son-in-law, Limerick hurling great, Ciaran Carey and is celebrating nearly 30 years supplying buildings and equipment to the pig industry For close on three decades, Phil Bennis & Son Ltd has been giving a personal, flexible and bespoke service to pig farmers.

By importing direct from manufacturers in 10 countries, the company makes state-of-the-art equipment and machinery available to farmers and meat producers at highly competitive prices.

Their complete product range for modern pig production includes housing, flooring, feeders and drinkers.

38-year-old Philip is Managing Director

A fogger IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Phil Bennis

and he explained: “We buy direct from the manufacturers and install the machinery ourselves. Based in Limerick, we have customers all over Ireland, including the north, and ex-pats in England. Thankfully, we are busy enough at the moment.”

Phil Bennis & Sons supply the right equipment at the right price and they appreciate the importance of customer relations.

That's something they never have and never will take for granted.

“We're fortunate to have a loyal customer base that will only come to us. It's a competitive business, you have to give the best price but you can't skimp on quality.

“We have confidence in the quality of our products which we offer at competitive prices.”

Innovative products such as their Balance Flooring helps keep them a couple of steps ahead of their competitors.

The Patrickswell-based company is the only provider of the quick and easy to install Balance Flooring in the country

A bulb or lamp protector

and the benefits of the farrowing slate with movable slow slat are multiple: Reduce the number of smothered and crushed piglets.

As soon as the sow lies down, the sow's slat will drop to the level of the

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Congratulations & Continued Success To Phil Bennis & Sons, From

Telefon: +49 (0)62529908-13 Fax: +49 (0)62529908-28 www.monoflo.de Congratulations To Phil Bennis & Sons On Many Years Of Success From

www.van-osch-uden.nl T: +31 (0)413-262686

www.growfeeder.com T: +31 (0)413-245706

Congratulations & Continued Success To Phil Bennis & Sons From

Tramstraat 6, 8560 Wevelgem, Belgium. www.recticelinsulation.com

WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR COMPANY FEATURED IN Irish Tractor & Farm Machinery Magazine

Call Barry now on 00353 (0) 46 9241923 66

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

phil bennis designed_Layout 1 17/06/2014 12:30 Page 3

piglet floor.

When the sows gets up again, the sow slat will rise to a safe height.

Passage for the piglets in front of and behind the sow.

Easy operation by the sow through floor-mounted or side-mounted switching.

Flexible positioning of the sow: straight or even diagonal set up if required.

Labour saving: less extensive monitoring of the farrowing places.

The piglet slats can be made of solid plastic (Blue Deck) or Super Coated

Rotecna Pans

expanded metal or woven wire.

As the sole importers in Ireland for respected brands such as Nooyen, Grow Feeder, Van Osch, Rotecna, Rectical, Abriso, Interheat, ECM, Centriforce, Springer McGrath, Joriside, Inter Continental, Igeba and Konk, IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

A balance floor

general purpose, value for money board manufactured from 100% recycled plastic, including agricultural farm film.

It can be fabricated and welded for a variety of agricultural applications, including: sheep and pig pens, poultry housing, cattle handling races, sheeting gates, feed trailer floors, grain stores and bins, lining troughs, partition Penning boards.

This leading sheet brand, Stokbord offers more benefits than traditional plywood. It also provides significant long term cost savings as it does not rot and once installed, it requires no upkeep.

Fattener pens, meanwhile, are available in various Another example of a balance floor materials - solid PVC, hammer proof HDPE Phil Bennis & Son can stand panels or rock hard concrete over their equipment. panels together with Trespa These companies are continuously improving, testing and developing products to ensure that they are at the highest standard for increase of productivity.

Manufactured exclusively

by Centriforce Products, Stokbord, for example, is a

doors, with stainless or galvanized steel posts.

Accessories such as stock prodders, pig markers, AI equipment, sluce values and canopies are also in stock.

So planning to revamp your pig finishing houses and need the right penning system? Looking for the optimum pig equipment for group housing of sows?

Look no further that Phil Bennis & Sons Ltd. Having gained the trust of so many pig farmers, they take great satisfaction in helping to ensure pig production can be carried out to its highest potential.

Spray markers

CONTACT DETAILS

Phil Bennis & Sons Ltd, The Old Creamery, Clarina Road, Patrickswell, Co. Limerick.

Phone: +353 (0)61 355275 Fax: +353 (0)61 355616 E: info@philbennissales.ie

A shock prod

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2

50 years on and still going strong

014 sees O'Connor's Tractors of Knocknagoshel reach the magical milestone of 50 years in business. Managing Director Shane O'Connor let us in on his wishes for the future as he blows out the candles on the birthday cake.

O’Connor's Tractors is a wellknown family business established in 1964 by Dennis O’Connor, importing and exporting quality used tractors and machinery.

Based in Knockbrack, Knocknagoshel, Co Kerry, on the Limerick and Kerry border, they specialise in the exportation of tractors, and are one of Ireland's leading stockists of quality used tractors with over 55 tractors in stock all year round.

Company founder Dennis sadly passed away five years ago in 2009 but the family firm continues to prosper under the management of his wife Maureen (director) and son Shane who has been managing director since 2002.

“Dennis started in business in 1964, repairing cars and tractors for the local community,” Shane explained.

“He served his apprenticeship in O'Leary's Garage, Abbeyfeale and Barrett's

This new harvester is part of the team

O’Connor’s offer a cost effective alternative to new tractors and machinery

CONTACT DETAILS

O'Connor's Tractors Ltd

O’Connor’s Tractors are one of Ireland’s leading stockists of quality used tractors

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Knockbrack Knocknagoshel Co Kerry Ireland Tel: +353 (0)68 46142 Fax: +353 (0)68 46548 Sales: sales@oconnorstractors.com Parts: parts@oconnorstractors.com Website: www.oconnorstractors.com IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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At their stand in the Co. Kerry Industrial and Agricultural Show at Ballybeggan during the ‘80s were Denis O’Connor, Dermot Thunder, Fiat Rep, John Joe O’Connor and Thomas and Shane O’Connor

of Listowel.

“He then started importing second-hand tractors in the seventies and built up the business from there.”

A company that puts

product reliability and customer service first, O'Connor's took on the Valtra Tractors dealership for Kerry, Limerick and Clare back in 1999.

They source most of their tractors from the UK and also stock Newholland, John Deere, Massey Ferguson, Case and other makes ranging from 80HP to 220HP. As a company they Pictured is Philip Connell, Valtra and supply mostly Maureen and Denis O’Connor on the Redrock, Amazone occasion that O’Connor Bros were appointed as Valtra dealers and Krone farm machinery and plant been signs that new tractor and, in addition, they stock sales are picking up.” a large range of parts and Keeping the ship afloat accessories. during these trying times Asked how the current hasn't been easy, Shane economic climate is readily admits, but a prudent treating them, Shane – who approach to controlling their joined the family business costs has stood O'Connor's after leaving school 20 Tractors in good-stead. years ago – replied: “We're “It's tough going but we're busy enough, importing a hanging in there. We've been lot of machinery and second around a long time, survived hand tractors from the UK. the last recession and we'll “The export end of things is survive this one. Business going well. Our tractors can dipped a little, like it did for be found as far away as Tasmania! There has also everyone else, but you just

Best Wishes To O’Connor’s Tractors IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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O'Connors designed_Layout 1 17/06/2014 12:25 Page 3

have to keep things tight, keep overheads at a minimum.”

Over the past 50 years, O'Connor's have developed a worthy reputation for their reliability, service and cost; making them an ideal place to purchase used tractors and machinery.

They boast a large amount of repeat business which is the envy of many of their competitors. This is not something that Shane takes for granted and he is very appreciative of the loyal support they have received from their customers.

“We're lucky to have good, loyal customers to be fair. We took on the Valtra franchise in 1999 and it has proven to be a good, solid brand. We've enjoyed a lot of repeat business as a result of that and we have sold them all over the country.

“The secrets of success is the quality of our products and the service we offer. A lot of it is down to finance. Banks not

exactly tripping over themselves to give out finance, it can be hard enough to get.

Probably should be a little bit more plentiful.”

Providing gainful, profitable employment to a workforce of six, O'Connor's premises include stores, a service area and a forecourt.

Looking into his crystal ball Shane adopts an optimistic outlook: “It's not all

doom and gloom, there are a lot of reasons to be positive.”

When your business is offering a cost effective alternative to new tractors and machinery then you have every right to be confident about what the future holds in store.

After 50 years, they are not going to change the habit of a lifetime now! Give Shane and O'Connor's Tractors a shout to see how they can help you save money.

Best Wishes & Continued Success To O’Connor’s Tractors

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IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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BEST WISHES TO SHANE & O’CONNOR’S TRACTORS

J.C. DALY

Shane & All At O’Connor’s Tractors Continued Success To

from Denny & All At

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56 Gate Lodge, Castle Road., Blackrock, Cork Mobile: 087- 2598776 | Tel: 021- 4359369 Fax: 021- 4359767 Email: kirwaytransport@gmail.com IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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John and Matt Foley of Kilbush Nurseries

T

A voice for the field vegetable growers

he chairman of the IFA's National Field Vegetables & Protected Crops Committee, Matt Foley talks about issues affecting members.

A tomato grower based in Rush, Co. Dublin, Matt is into his second two-year

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term as chairman of the Committee which represents approximately 170 field vegetable growers in Ireland. The National Field Vegetables & Protected Crops Committee is a subsidiary of the IFA Horticulture Committee which comprises the chairmen of the various Horticulture Committees, including the

Potato, Soft Fruits, Mushroom and Nursery Stock Committees.

The Horticulture Committee’s most important issues include commodity prices, input costs, producers’ incomes, retail activity, industry developments and the Bord Bia Quality Assurance Scheme.

Matt, who is a member of the Bord Bia IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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Horticulture Committee, is joined on the National Field Vegetable & Protected Crops Committee by vicechairman Mark McCann, Joe Dockrell (Dublin), Colm Grimes (Dublin), Sean Mahony (Galway), Gerard Hanfin (Kerry), Paul Brophy (Kildare), John O’Shea (Kilkenny), Eddie Doyle (Kilkenny), Leo Dunne (Laois) and William Ruiter (Meath). In addition, Pat Farrell is employed as a full-time marketing executive who liaises with growers, supermarkets and Bord Bia. “Our industry is worth hundreds of million euros to the Irish economy, despite being very small in comparison to other farm sectors,” Matt points out.

“Sadly, our numbers continue to dwindle as the growing becomes more intensive. Our numbers have fallen from over 1,000 15 years ago to less than 200 today. There are only a handful of tomato growers left and maybe half a dozen carrot and parsnip growers.

In spite of this, the output is higher than ever and growers

John Foley is into his second term as National Field Vegetables & Protected Crops Committee chairman

are really feeling the squeeze.”

Ireland’s field vegetable growers are mainly concentrated along the eastern seaboard where the sandy soil is particularly suited to growing carrots, parsnip, cabbage, cauliflower, swede, etc.

“Most of our members are concentrated in the north Dublin, east Meath, Wexford,

Kilbush Nurseries have been growing tomatoes for decades IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Carlow and Kilkenny areas.

The soil is sandier than in other parts of the country and we don’t get much frost in the winter time compared to other parts of the country,” the Committee chairman says.

Matt goes on to explain how the past few years have been extremely difficult for growers, with many struggling to stay in business due to rising fuel and fertiliser costs, supermarket price wars and Ireland’s relatively high minimum wage rates.

“The livelihoods of Irish vegetable growers have been put in jeopardy,” a fearful Matt continues.

“We are facing many challenges because of higher diesel and fertiliser costs. These two inputs have a dramatic effect on unit production cost in fruit and vegetables, due to the extensive cultivation and harvesting required per acre.

“On top of that, some major retailers continue to engage in a relentless power battle for market share using fresh produce as a loss leader and cost of this back to the grower.

That was highlighted last

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Christmas when some supermarkets were selling bags of vegetables for just five and six cent.

“Everyone knows that it is impossible to grow vegetables for such a paltry amount of money and we made our feelings known by buying the vegetables back in some supermarkets and handing them out for free to shoppers. There were no winners from the whole affair.

“We’d also like to see the minimum wage rates in the horticultural industry abolished and brought in line with key competitor countries. Minimum wage rates for labourers are 40 per higher than

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in Northern Ireland, which seriously affects our ability to be competitive in the marketplace.”

Matt runs Kilbush Nurseries in Rush along with his brother John, with the business having been set up by their father Matthew in 1929. Matthew is believed to have built the first glasshouse in north Co. Dublin and, in doing so, started a trend. Kilbush Nurseries, whose main customers are Tesco and M&S, can employ up to 20 staff at peak times.

Matt insists there is a lot to be gained from being an IFA National Field Vegetables & Protected Crops Committee member.

“As well as benefiting from the IFA promoting your agenda, we have a strong working relationship with the Minister of Agriculture Simon Coveney and Junior Minister Tom Hayes. tWe are in a position to leverage and to sort out any individual issues. And despite

last Christmas’ price war, producers generally enjoy a good relationship with the supermarkets.”

Best Wishes To Matt Foley

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

kerry mechanical designed_Layout 1 17/06/2014 12:12 Page 1

K

Breaking the mould

erry Mechanical Engineering was founded to meet the growing market demand for the provision for high-end steel fabrication and engineering service and the jewel in the company's crown is the KME Pan-Breaker.

Managing Director Fergus O'Keeffe explains why no farmer should be without one.

The KME Pan-Breaker is ideal tool to fight soil compaction, one of the leading causes of yield reduction, it is designed to provide maximum soil fracturing with minimal surface damage.

This compaction layer or Pan is created between 8 – 12 inches below the surface; it restricts the natural flow of water and impedes the effect of land drains.

The positive effects of using the KME Pan-Breaker include important agronomic factors, better soil tilth, enhanced root penetration and increased

utilization of nutrients, which in turn reduces the need for fertilizers.

KME Managing Director Fergus O'Keeffe designed the Pan-Breaker five years ago and the demand for the product has lived up to his own expectations.

“I'm a farmers son myself and I looked

at the market,” explained Fergus to Irish Tractor & Agri. “What was coming on to our land was giving very poor quality of work with very poor after effects “I noticed an opening for a proper machine and went away and designed the KME Pan-Breaker. It took a year or so to get it right.

“It's a purely mechanical machine. There are no hydraulics as we deliberately cut out anything that gives a farmer or contractor trouble like hydraulic rams, hydraulic hoses, accumlators and so on and our machine works at any time of year.

“Any farmer or contractor that knows anything about machinery picks our PanBreaker, a machine that can't give trouble.”

The KME pan breaker is available in three models, two leg, three leg and four leg.

The leg system utilises a straight-leg shank design, with a narrow, 3/4 inch, high tensile steel lower shank profile.

This combination results in a very narrow

The KME Panbreaker, comes with 2, 3 or 4 legs IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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kerry mechanical designed_Layout 1 17/06/2014 12:12 Page 2

opening profile in the sub-soil cross section.

Soil “flows” around the shank in a smooth controlled lifting action (laminar). The laminar flow design minimizes soil heaving and creation of large clods, resulting in minimal topsoil and seedbed disturbance.

Maximum cross-row fracturing is achieved with the replaceable eight inch, chromium carbide shattering wing attachment.

The upper portion of the shank is one and a 1/4 inch thick for added strength.

Working depths up to 18 inches is achievable.

The unique design of the KME Pan-Breakers discs allows for maximum deflection over obstacles, practically eliminating disc blade and shaft damage.

‘Jack Hammer’ vibration fractures soil well below operating depth.

The exclusive use of spring steel shank arms is designed to handle contact with

The unique Panbreaker design features 12 degree swivel leg 2 spring reset by design which is the only mechanical option available in Ireland

obstacles without damaging or bending.

The shank point load is over one tone with a generous 20inch trip height to clear field obstacles.

Centrally located near Listowel, Co. Kerry, and close to key ports such as Foynes and Fenit, Kerry Mechanical Engineering service all of Munster, Leinster, Ulster and

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Kerry Mechanical Engineering

5 Day Place, Tralee, Co.Kerry Tel: 066-71 21221 | Fax: 066-71 23003

Connacht.

Established 15 years ago by Fergus, such was the popularity of the Pan-Breaker product, the growth in business resulted in employment jumping from eight to 28 at its peak.

The O'Keeffe-led

CONTACT DETAILS

Kerry Mechanical Engineering

Kilmeaney Kilmorna Listowel Co. Kerry Phone: (068) 45005 Fax: (068) 45863 Email: kerrymecheng@gmail.com

Wishing Kerry Mechanical Engineering Continued Success In The Future

WELDING SUPPLIES 14 Lacknalooha, Mallow, Co.Cork Office: 022-43534 Fax:022-57425 Mobile: Eddie 086-1941222 E: eddie@engtechengineering.ie

Best Wishes To Kerry Mechanical Engineering, From

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Sperrin Galvanisers (Irl) Ltd Derryfrench,Tynagh,Loughrea,Co. Galway T: + 353 90 974 5804 F: + 353 90 974 5805 www.sperringalvanisers.com Continued Best Wishes To Kerry Mechanical Engineering 76

Campbell machinery are Irelands largest stockists of blast cleaning and surface finishing equipment Units 26 / 27 Southern Cross Business Park, Boghall Road, Bray, Co. Wicklow Tel: +353 - 1 - 2762506 Fax: +353 - 1 - 2762886 Email: info@campbellmachinery.ie www.campbellmachinery.ie IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

kerry mechanical designed_Layout 1 17/06/2014 12:12 Page 3

Advantages to the KME panbreaker are no hydraulic hoses or fittings, no hydraulic rams and no hydraulic accumulators

operation currently has 28 on its payroll and their are plans to increase that number in the not too distant future.

Last year, meanwhile, they doubled the size of their fabrication facilities.

KME specialises in large quantities and high volume steal fabrication and their extensive storage facilities and yard space ensures the safekeeping of their clients' products.

The company's new fabrication and assembly hall measures over 900 square meters and comes equipped with 2 over head 5 tonne cranes.

The new fabrication hall is equipped with a Kearns Ritchards horizontal boring machine along with milling machines, cnc lathes, 2 press brakes, a 6m x 3m cnc high definition plasma alone with a range of other equipment.

Several large scale projects like Firies bridge and the Great Southern Trail bridge were IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

constructed and assembled in-house.

No matter the scale or quantity, all their products leave the production facility in perfect condition, carefully packed to eliminate any damage during transport, while their state-of-the-art purpose built

painting unit means that bulk painting of large quantities is readily achievable.

“Business is going very well for us but the biggest challenge facing the sector is the lack of finance, and support from state bodys “

Prices ranges from €6,000 to €11,000

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Pig industry punching above its weight

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he pig production industry makes a massive contribution to the Irish economy. As the third largest farming sector in Ireland, farm gate output equated to €432m in 2012 but producers are facing constant challenges as IFA (Irish Farmers’ Association) Pigs and Pig Meat Committee Chairman Pat O’Flaherty explains.

IFA Pigs and Pig Meat Committee Chairman Pat O’Flaherty

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The IFA Pigs and Pig Meat Committee is the representative body for the country’s 300 pig producers who produced almost 3.5 million pigs for slaughter in 2012.

These farms combined with the feed mills and factories give employment to over 12,000 people and with assistance from the Government under the new Rural Development programme this has the potential to significantly increase.

“The industry is a fantastic success story for Ireland as not only is Irish meat in demand in our home market, it is also in demand abroad with almost 60% of Irish bacon and pork products exported. Exports are growing every year and this is a testament to the quality of our product,” Kildare man Pat enthuses.

“Irish bacon and pork has an excellent reputation around IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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the world and we want to keep it that way. We are thus far the only sector to surpass the targets that were set out for us in the Food Harvest 2020 strategy compiled by Minister Coveney. Although small compared to other farming sectors, the pig industry is cutting edge and efficient and the farmers involved, who are highly skilled, invest in growing their business continuously.”

Key policy areas and areas of activity for the IFA Pigs Committee include: pig prices and weekly market analysis; meetings with processors to maintain pressure to return a fair price with both suppliers and committee members; promoting the product and ensuring access to the best markets for pigs and pig meat. In addition, the IFA has

Pat runs separate pig farms in Mulhuddart and Rathangan

made significant progress on pig health, welfare and environmental issues and was instrumental in ensuring the survival of the Teagasc Pig Production Development unit which promises that research and advisory will be available to Irish pig farmers into the future.

Pig farmers have come under enormous pressure from inferior imported meat products being sold to Irish consumers often masqueraded as Irish meat.

To tackle this problem, IFA set up the world’s first pig meat DNA programme ‘DNAcertified’.

This programme allows IFA to scientifically separate the imported meat from the Irish so that consumers no longer have to rely on labels to be confident in the origin of their meat.

The IFA partnered with IdentiGen in Ireland to build the DNA TraceBack system for boars. All Irish breeding boars are DNA tagged, which is then used to generate a DNA-ID, a unique code which identifies the animal, its offspring and subsequently all produce from these animals. The programme now forms part of the Bord Bia quality assurance programme, and both Bord Bia and the IFA collect and test samples from retailers, butchers and the catering

Best Wishes To IFA Pigs & Pig Meat Committee From

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IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

trade on a monthly basis to ensure that if they are claiming the meat is Irish, that it is.

“There has been a lot of mislabelling by supermarkets over the years with regard to their pork and bacon products. With this system, we can determine whether the product is Irish or not.

What we would say to the big retailers is ‘if it’s not Irish, put it on the packet’ and let the customers decide whether to buy it or not.

“The idea behind this system is to increase the sales of Irish produce in the domestic and export markets by providing the consumer with a cast-iron guarantee, backed by science, that the product is of Irish origin,” Pat continues.

The Pigs and Pig Meat Committee Chairman welcomes the development which has seen SuperValu become the first retailer in Ireland to use the DNA database to test their own meat.

This allows the company to provide a guarantee to customers that all of its bacon is Irish.

“We would always encourage consumers to only buy produce with the Bord Bia logo on them. By buying Irish produce, you are supporting Irish jobs.”

Pat O’Flaherty has over 30 years experience in agriculture

The role of IFA Pigs and Pig Meat Committee Chairman is a voluntary one which Pat, who succeeded Tim Cullinan at the beginning of 2013, will serve for two years. His day job involves running separate pig farms – consisting of 700 sows –in Mulhuddart and Rathangan, which are about the same distance from his home in Maynooth.

Pat has worked in the industry for the past 30 years.

After graduating with a degree in Agricultural Science from UCD in 1984, he worked as a sales representative in the Leinster and Ulster areas for Kavanagh’s Mills in Maynooth for 14 years. He later spent two years covering the 32 counties for PIC (Pig Improvement Company).

Pat and his wife Mary have five young boys – Liam, Cian, Eoin and twins Evan and Emmett.

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A slatted tank

Serving the agricultural sector for over half a century

L

ast year, Maxwell Concrete celebrated its 50th anniversary. The County Tyrone based company is renowned for supplying the agricultural sector with highquality cattle slats, precast flooring and wall panels as well as a range of water troughs and collection tanks. We met up with 80

Jonathan Maxwell to take a closer look at the success of this outstanding family-business.

A long-running business based on the outskirts of Castlederg in County Tyrone, Maxwell Concrete has established itself as one of the premier precast manufacturers in the province. Built on over 50 years’ experience the Maxwell

family name is renowned throughout Ireland for producing high-quality agricultural products at competitive prices.

Founded by Craig Maxwell as a small quarrying business in 1963, Maxwell Concrete soon expanded, producing grant-approved cattle slats for four decades. In 2007, a new production line was installed within the precast division, IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

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highlighting the company’s commitment to producing a wide choice of agricultural precast flooring.

Customer satisfaction has always been of paramount importance and the team at Maxwell Concrete work closely with their customers to provide a product that fully meets their requirements. The fact that they are now in their 51st year - and have in some cases been supplying three generations of the same families -speaks volumes for their exemplary track record in consistently producing reliable and accountable solutions.

The prestressed division of the company opened in 2009, offering a wider and varied range of products including wall panels and grain dividers. The same IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

year also marked the launch of their latest range of fast flow drinkers, with an innovative centre core pipe protection system designed around the general rule that water should be clean, fresh and readily available.

Today, the full range of agricultural precast products comprises the MEGA trough (which can facilitate up to 14 cows at any given time), fastflow troughs (available from 100to 300-gallon capacities), tractor weights, agricultural stock walls, single slats, field troughs, L-walls, retainer walls, passage slabs, support beams, cattle slats, cubicle bases, manhole slabs and safety slabs.

The award-winning company also develops a very popular range of precast tanks – silage effluent collection tanks and dirty water tanks.

Maxwell Concrete presents the Irish farmer with a varied and practical product range.

Their highly-acclaimed cattle slat, available in 6-inch increments from 7 foot - 13 foot, is designed to meet the needs of beef and dairy farming and is developed in

accordance with British and European standards.

At the manufacturing facility in County Tyrone, all products are produced in accordance with a rigorous quality management system, which guarantees customers an excellent product at all times.

Only the highest-quality cement and aggregate goes into producing the entire range. Animal comfort and safety is important and no stone is left unturned in ensuring that products are 100% animal-friendly. And, of course, a happy animal means a happy farmer!

Regarding the genesis of the company, Jonathan Maxwell – son of founder Craig – notes: “My father would have started out in the quarry and making blocks for the housing market and he then developed into manufacturing agricultural slats about three or four years later. At first, the slats were in single wooden moulds but he then bought in new slat lines from Italy, having identified slatting as a market with great potential.”

Maxwell Concrete concentrated solely on the

manufacture of concrete slats up until 2007. At that stage, Jonathan and his sister Kirstin took the reins and they began to make some changes: “We recognised that we had to add new product lines.

After the slurry tank grants for the slatting ended, we knew there would be a big lull in what we had been doing and that we would have to introduce new products if we were to keep our workforce together. We diversified into water troughs – from 15 gallon to 600 gallon, various types of wall panels, the silage effluent and dirty water tanks, and free-standing walls as well. Meanwhile, slats and cubicle bases are still a big part of our everyday work.”

In total, the family-run company provides gainful employment to a team of eight as well as generating considerable indirect employment.

“We subcontract out all of our fitting and transport work,” Jonathan continues. “We used to operate our own fleet up until last year but we are much more flexible now.”

A tractor weight

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Slats

In terms of the catchment area covered, Maxwell Concrete provides its products throughout Northern Ireland and the border counties. “Traditionally, we would have covered the upper nine counties of Ireland. Now, while we still do some into Cavan, Monaghan and Donegal, most of our business tends to be here in Northern Ireland.

Looking to the future, Jonathan is optimistic that Maxwell Concrete will continue to go from strength to strength: “You have to keep moving. We have won

awards for innovation and design down through the years and you have to always have your thinking cap on.

“We can stand alongside any of our rivals and are very proud of any product we manufacture. We provide a good product with a high standard of finish.

Our slats stand the test of time and are generally still standing up to 40 years later – this in very hostile conditions.

“We use only the best-quality raw materials. Even though we are surrounded by local quarries, we use only Cookstown sand and gravel and Blue Circle cement. This ensures that we produce the highest-quality concrete products available.

“We stand over all of our work. We never leave a farm unless the farmer is 100% happy with the job. We realise that

you are only as good as your last job and we treat every new job like it was our first one. Every job is a priority. Our ethos is that if you treat a customer right, there is a good chance he will come back and do business again.”

It’s been working for 51 years and counting…

CONTACT DETAILS

Maxwell Concrete 22 Folliard Road, Castlederg, County Tyrone.

Tel: 048 8167 1326 Fax: 048 8167 1736 Email: info@maxwellconcrete.co.uk www.maxwellconcrete.co.uk

Plant Lubrication (NI) Ltd

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TOTAL Key Lubricants Distributor We are pleased to have been suppliers to MAXWELL CONCRETE for many years and wish them every success in the future

Precast troughs

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Lubricating Oils ~ Greases ~ Agricultural Oils

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Maxwell Concrete From

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

tascc designed_Layout 1 17/06/2014 12:03 Page 1

TASCC force

T

he Trade Assurance Scheme for Combinable Crops (TASCC) is a voluntary scheme developed in the UK and overseen by the Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC). We contacted AIC Services’ Technical Manager Garry Rudd, who coordinates TASCC, to get an insight into the benefits of this scheme to Northern Ireland members.

The Trade Assurance Scheme for Combinable Crops (TASCC) was established so that farmers and end users could be sure that crops of grain, oilseeds and pulses were treated responsibly once they left the farm. This also includes wheat processed by flour millers and malting barley for brewers and distillers in the drinks industry. The scheme provides independent verification that the trade is meeting food safety laws.

The TASCC is audited and certified by an independent certification body, in accordance with the internationallyrecognised EN45011 standard. This means that the certification body is itself independently assessed every year to ensure that the standard is implemented and administered consistently and fairly.

The scheme dovetails with UFAS (the Universal Feed Assurance Scheme, which deals with the production and delivery of compounds feeds and the supply of feeds to the farm) and with the UK livestock assurance (Red Tractor) schemes, which the major supermarkets use as a benchmark for home-produced IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

livestock products they buy.

TASCC is recognised within the food industry as being essential to maintaining traceability of assured combinable crops after they have left the farm.

The scheme comprises a Scheme Manual and four codes of practice (Storage, Haulage, Merchants and Testing Facilities).

The Storage Scheme is operated in conjunction with the Grain and Feed Trade Association (GAFTA), covering combinable crops and feed materials.

The Trade Assurance Scheme for Combinable Crops is one of the four Trade Assurance Schemes which operate under the umbrella of the Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC), which was itself established in 2003 to represent the needs of the UK agri-supply trade by lobbying UK and EU governments, delivering relevant information to its members and offering technical support.

The AIC, which is responsible for the overall management of the schemes, has developed four Trade Assurance Schemes covering areas of the agri-supply

industry in which its members are engaged. These fall into two categories: Food / Feed Safety; and Fertiliser Security and Traceability. Within the Food / Feed Safety category there are three schemes, namely TASCC, UFAS and FEMAS (the Feed Materials Assurance Scheme, which covers the sourcing and production of feed ingredients).

Meanwhile, FIAS (the Fertiliser Industry Assurance Scheme) has been developed to help the industry manage the safety, security and traceability of all fertilisers.

All schemes are operated by independent certification bodies under current accreditation from UKAS (United Kingdom Assurance Service) and are managed in consultation with a variety of stakeholders including scheme participants and government along with customer and supplier groups.

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With market coverage of over 95% in the UK, TASCC deals primarily with combinable crops (cereals, oilseeds, pulses etc.) and covers trading, testing and transportation of crops and other feed materials. Benefits to members include guaranteed compliance to the needs of government, customers and the industry; support and guidance in Health & Safety; lower insurance premiums; access to European markets; and access to technical information.

Membership is open to any company involved in the trading, transport, storage or testing of combinable crops, subject to paying the AIC registration fee and complying with the scheme rules. A register of participants is on the AIC’s website, www.agindustries.org.uk.

TASCC aims to protect and build upon the integrity of farm assurance between the farmgate and delivery to the first processor. It provides credible independent verification that the trade is meeting its legal obligations under food and feed legislation as well as associated codes of practice.

TASCC approval indicates that a company meets the standards required of raw material suppliers.

In accordance with the code of practice for the road haulage of combinable crops and animal feeds, effective from February, 2014, hauliers must transport goods in accordance with food / feed safety legislation and customer requirements. The code of practice comprises a set of minimum standards to ensure safety when hauliers handle and transport all combinable crops, feed materials, compounds and additives.

The code applies to all loads of goods carried by road transport and covers bulk tipping, bulk blowing, flat-bed, walking-floor and bulk tanker vehicles while farmers

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approved by schemes recognised by the AIC are permitted to carry their own produce to a merchant’s store on their own agricultural vehicles.

The Agricultural Industries Confederation (AIC) - the Scheme Manager of UFAS, TASCC, FEMAS and FIAS, providing assurance in the feed, food and fertiliser supply chains - is the agri-supply industry’s leading trade association.

Formed in October, 2003 by a merger of three trade associations, AIC is the voice of the agri-supply industry, with over 250 members in the agri-supply trade, and represents £6.5 billion turnover at farmgate.

The trade association represents several sectors within the agri-supply industry including: Animal Feed; Crop Protection and Agronomy; Fertilisers; Grain and Oilseed; Seed.

AIC works on behalf of its members by lobbying policy makers and stakeholders; delivering information; providing trade assurance; and offering technical support.

AIC members represent the agri-supply industry which provides input into the

agricultural and farming sectors. AIC promotes the benefits of modern c o m m e r c i a l agriculture in the UK and supports collaboration throughout the foodchain.

Lobbying (in Brussels, Belfast, Cardiff, Edinburgh and Westminster) is managed and carried out by the sector head and relevant specialists both within and outside member organisations.

Relevant Government departments and trade associations are contacted both in the UK and Europe regarding various trade issues including existing and forthcoming legislation.

Full representation is made by AIC representatives regardin specific trade issues and reported back to the relevant AIC committee and to organisations via AIC Member Briefings.

Members in Northern Ireland are represented by the Northern Ireland Grain Trade Association NIGTA.

Garry Rudd, AIC Services Technical manager

Representatives sit on a number of AIC committees and working groups which ensures that information and issues are transferred between both AIC and NIGTA. There are many AIC members and Trade Assurance participants who are in, or deal with, the transport industry.

Garry Rudd, Technical Manager, AIC Services is the key contact in this area. As well as being the key contact for any Transport and Health and Safety issues, Garry is responsible for the management and coordination of two AIC assurance schemes, TASCC and ESTA. IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

tascc designed_Layout 1 17/06/2014 12:03 Page 3

John P Glackin Ltd

Best Wishes & Continued Success To Tascc, From

MK TRANSPORT (NI) LTD Wishing Tascc Continued Success In The Future From

BULK HAULAGE UK- IRELAND

Bulk Haulage

99 Mullaghboy Road, Bellaghy, Magherafelt, Co. Londonderry BT45 8JH

Telephone: 028-79386509

Gary Wright & Sons

Best Wishes To Tascc, From

51 Ballyblack Road, Newtownards, Co Down BT22 2AZ Telephone: 07802-840 833 | Mobile: 07860-735009 E: amanda@mktransportni.com | www.mktransportni.com

M.Keys Transport Best Wishes To Tascc, From

Bulk & Livestock Transport

Stewartstown, Dungannon, Co. Tyrone Tel:078-66364564 E: garywright67@hotmail.co.uk

22 Annagh Road, Clogher, Co. Tyrone BT76 OUX

Tel: 048-855 48657 Tel: 048-855 48867

E:malcolm@mkeystransport.co.uk

PAT LOUGHRAN Bulk Transport Ireland

Ballyreagh, Tempo, Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh

Tel: 028 - 8954 1665 Mobile: 0777 - 180 7749

Best Wishes & Continued Success To TASCC Continued Best Wishes To Tascc, From

RELIABLE BULK TRANSPORTATION IRELAND - UK- EUROPE

9 Kilnadore Road, Cushendall, Co. Antrim BT44 0SG T:+44 (0) 28 21771473 F:+44 (0) 28 21771473 E:john@moyletransport.com

www.moyletransport.com

IRISH TRACTOR & AGRI

Bulk Tippers & Curtain Sided • Open Tops General Haulage Throughout Ireland “No Hill To Steep ...... No Town Too Far”

18 Dunamore Rd., Cookstown, Co. Tyrone BT80 9NR. Tel: (028) 8675 1606 • Fax: (028) 8675 1695.

Mobile: 07770 728096

WOULD YOU LIKE YOUR COMPANY FEATURED IN Best Wishes & Continued Success To Tascc

Call Barry now on 00353 (0) 46 9241923 Irish Tractor & Farm Machinery Magazine

85

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