The annual Irish Pig Health Society (IPHS) symposium at The Curragh, Co. Kildare saw farmers, veterinarians, researchers, and industry stakeholders gather to focus on the future of pig health and production.

Opening the formal proceedings yesterday (April 14), IPHS president Jessica Wright highlighted the challenges currently facing the industry, including rising input costs, global uncertainty, and increasing societal pressures.

Wright said: “Irish pig farmers, long recognised for their resilience and innovation, are once again being asked to adapt at pace.

“Resilience in our industry is no longer just about enduring challenges, but about anticipating them, preparing for them, and responding strategically.

"By working together and continuing to invest in knowledge and innovation, we can ensure a strong and sustainable future for Irish pig farming.”

Among the subjects discussed was porcine respiratory and reproductive syndrome (PRRS), a virus initially described in some circles as “mystery swine disease” and later sometimes named “blue ear disease”.

This year’s symposium theme, ‘Securing the herd, securing the business: PRRS, costs and farm protection’, reflected the dual focus on animal health and business resilience in a changing operating environment.

Speakers

A series of speakers made presentations at the event, addressing key challenges and opportunities facing the sector.

Stephen Waite, commercial director of the pork division at Cranswick PLC, delivered a presentation on the growing role of on-farm CCTV in modern agriculture.

He outlined how video monitoring is increasingly being used as a management and training tool to improve animal welfare, enhance staff performance, and support transparency across the supply chain.

Dr. Violet Wylie of Violet Wylie Consulting, alongside Emma O’Connor, innovation broker with Animal Health Ireland, spoke on PRRS control.

They highlighted the success of a Northern Ireland pilot programme, which significantly reduced disease prevalence, and outlined plans for a coordinated approach across the Republic of Ireland, with a focus on testing, biosecurity, and industry collaboration.

Mick Sloyan, agricultural economist and former CEO of (Biomedical Physics and Engineering Express) BPEX, provided insights into pig price reporting across Europe.

His presentation demonstrated how differences between published and actual producer prices can impact market comparisons, highlighting the need for greater awareness and transparency when interpreting pricing data.

The speaker sessions concluded with a panel discussion between speakers and attendees.

The event concluded with a dinner reception, featuring a hog roast.