CPT AI is fast approaching and many rams have been nominated by LambPlus breeders to be used in the CPT this year. We are still, accepting nominations for rams this year so if you would like to nominate your ram, please call us on 023 882 0451 or email [email protected]

Breeders who have entered rams to the CPT in past years have reaped huge benefits as the accuracies of their rams and his progeny increase significantly, making their genetic evaluations more accurate. They also have genetic linkage to the CPT, meaning their flock will be genetically linked for up to 3 years.

What are we looking for?

Sheep Ireland are seeking the most influential rams from each breed to be involved in the program, as this will deliver the most benefit for the Irish Sheep Industry in years to come.  The rams need to meet certain criteria in order to be used in the CPT. The ram needs to have a high replacement index. He needs to be from a flock that a good DQI. Even though the criteria are high, all rams that are nominated will be considered.

What are the benefits of putting a ram into the CPT?

There are a number of benefits of putting a ram into the CPT. If a breeder puts forward their ram into the CPT, it means that their flock will be genetically linked to the central hub for the next three years. Maintaining linkage is extremely important, as it allows Sheep Ireland to produce the most accurate evaluation as possible for both the pedigree breeder and commercial farmers who buy the rams. The accuracy of the lambs sired by a CPT Sire will increase greatly, as there is much more data included in the evaluations of the lambs. Rams that are used in CPT are highlighted in Sheep Ireland catalogues that are used at the majority of pedigree ram sales up and down the country. More and more commercial farmers are looking for rams bred by CPT Sires as they know that they can place more trust in the evaluations. A

As well as all in benefits for the breeder, the CPT holds huge benefits for the Sheep Industry as a whole, as its aids Sheep Ireland in identifying the most profitable genetics in the country.

How do I put my Ram forward for the CPT?

If you are interested in putting your ram forward for the CPT, or if you want to know more about what’s involved, please call the Sheep Ireland office on 023 882 0451, or send an email to [email protected].