Niall and Catherine Hosey run a high-performing 100-cow Holstein-Friesian dairy herd just outside Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow. With a strong focus on genetics, performance recording, and participation in national schemes, their farm is a clear example of how technology and good management can work hand in hand.
The Hosey herd is involved in both the Dairy Beef Welfare Scheme (DBWS) and the National Genotyping Programme (NGP), among others. Niall has been committed to genotyping since joining the initial DNA calf registration pilot programme in 2020, continuing through to Spring 2023.
One of the main reasons he signed up the programme was to have accurate, trustworthy data on the heifer calves he was selling.
“I was selling replacement heifers and didn’t want to be selling my best. Over the years the herd has improved by keeping the higher EBI calves.”
And the results speak for themselves. The herd’s Economic Breeding Index (EBI) has climbed steadily from €230 in 2021 to an impressive €266 in 2025 – placing it in the top 1% nationally. This consistent rise is the product of a disciplined breeding and replacement strategy, underpinned by reliable performance data.
“Trying to choose replacements without the right information is like driving a car with no steering wheel,” says Niall.
Exceptional Herd Performance
The Hosey herd delivers on all fronts. Key performance metrics include:
- Calving interval: 361 days
- Spring 6-week calving rate: 98%
- Heifers calved at 22–26 months: 100%
- Fat & protein yield per cow: 473 kg (2024)
- Milk solids: 4.53% fat, 3.68% protein (2024)
These achievements are no accident—they reflect the deliberate, data-informed choices made on a daily basis.
A Key Role in National Genotyping
As an early adopter, Niall’s herd helped shape the National Genotyping Programme in its pilot stage. Reflecting on the experience, he’s clear on the benefits: “I have had no problems whatsoever and turnaround times have definitely improved.”
In 2025, Niall registered 97 calves through DNA-based registration, with samples taking just 7.3 days from birth to lab receipt and a further 4.6 days for in-lab processing.
While occasional parentage or sex errors do occur, Niall says they’ve been minor and quickly resolved. One particular case from Spring 2025 stands out: “A cow that wasn’t even contracted for breeding ended up having a bull calf with a very high EBI. “If I wasn’t doing the programme that calf wouldn’t have been picked up.”
For high-EBI herds, it’s essential to be in NGP – they’re producing the next generation of AI bulls.”
Breeding with Purpose
The Hoseys use 100% AI, with 35% of their cows contracted to AI companies last year. Their breeding goal? To keep pushing milk solids while maintaining current production levels.
To date, four calves from the herd have gone into AI, a significant milestone for any breeder.
Niall advises a team-based approach to bull selection:
“Spread the risk—don’t rely on just one sire. I’d never use more than 10 straws from any one bull.”
When it comes to replacements, genotyping has transformed how decisions are made.
“We combine genotype data with how the animals are performing on the ground. That’s what guides our decisions—what stays for breeding and what gets sold.”
Get Involved
For dairy farmers considering joining the National Genotyping Programme, Niall’s advice is clear: “If you’re serious about breeding and making progress, it’s a no-brainer.”
For more information or to sign up, visit www.icbf.com or contact HerdPlus at 023-8820452.