Conservation boost as Old Irish Goat is classed as native rare breed

THE Old Irish Goat has been approved as a native rare breed, with a conservation status of ‘at risk’.

Conservation of the breed has been led by the Mulranny-based Old Irish Goat Society.

The goats came to national prominence last year when a number were transported from Mayo to Howth to help control gorse growth and reduce the risk of fires.

Now, Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue has announced the approval of the Old Irish Goat breed as a native rare breed to Ireland. Its recognition as a breed is based on extensive DNA profiling using the latest genotyping technology and is an important step in the conservation of the breed.

Said Minister McConalogue: “There are many factors such as cultural, historic and genetic diversity that make the Old Irish Goat a unique breed with a rich history unique to Ireland. The Old Irish Goat is celebrated in Irish folklore, tradition, paintings and literature.

“By virtue of their hardiness, they provided a crucial component of Ireland’s past farming and rural life. Today they provide an important resource in conservation grazing, heritage and tourism.

“I recently saw first-hand the benefit these goats play at Howth Head in controlling gorse and helping to reduce the risk of fires with their amazing skilled grazing techniques. ”

He continued: “The Old Irish Goat Society is now also recognised by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine as a breed society and approved to maintain a breeding programme for the breed in Ireland. I particularly thank the efforts of this dedicated core of breeders and community activists in collecting and selective breeding of these animals; the Old Irish Goat can now be recognised officially as a key part of the rich and unique history of Irish breeds.”

Minister Pippa Hackett also wished the Old Irish Goat Society every success in their endeavours in the preservation and promotion of the breed.