IHFA Mission Statement

IHFA mission is that members’ farming systems are sustainable and in harmony with the environment, production systems that are efficient and profitable to continue the family farm into the future.

The system is principally based on maximum utilization of grazed grass and grass silage with varying supplementation as necessary with home grown forages to augment output from efficient long-life cows, producing wholesome food with cow wellbeing as the cornerstone.

Aims and Objectives

IHFA aims are to improve the breeding of pedigree Holstein Friesian cattle by encouraging its members to adopt all scientific methods to enhance genetic gain and improve conformation standards suitable to twenty first century dairy production.

IHFA aims to expand and enhance pedigree registrations by giving direction to the development and promotion of the breed in Ireland through its many events and services.

IHFA aims to continue its open herdbook policy where new members are welcome to join and avail of its grade-up service, whereby commercial dairy cows can be graded to full pedigree with registered traceability. This herdbook service expands the wide genetic diversity of the breed.

IHFA Strategic Business Plan 2021 – 2025

The Strategic Business Plan charts a way forward for the future direction of the Association in accordance with EU/DAFM legislation and the Charities Governance Code.

It sets objectives and actions required to attain those objectives under the following headings:

  • Breed Development
  • Research
  • Breed Promotion
  • Services
  • Finance
  • Governance
  • Environmental footprint
  • Youth programme

The document can be read in full, below.