Beef Welfare Scheme 2026

Watch: Suckler farmer Albert Murphy from Co. Longford prepares for autumn weaning & housing

What is the Beef Welfare Scheme 2026?

The aim of the Beef Welfare Scheme 2026 is to enhance animal health, husbandry and economic efficiency on suckler farms by supporting key animal welfare actions.

The 2026 scheme includes:

One mandatory action: Meal feeding pre- and post-weaning

Two optional actions:

1. Vaccination against pneumonia and/or clostridial diseases and/or bluetongue

2. Faecal testing or forage testing

Beef Welfare Scheme 2026 Overview

• Vaccination payment: €15 per eligible calf for pneumonia and/or clostridial disease
• Eligible calves: Born between 1^st July 2025 and 30^th June 2026
• Closing date: 23^rd September 2026
• Keep records:
  • Vaccine purchase receipts
  • Vaccine administration dates

Vaccines Suitable for the Beef Welfare Scheme 2026

MSD Animal Health offers a range of vaccines suitable for the Beef Welfare Scheme 2026. These vaccines help protect calves against pneumonia and clostridial diseases. Speak to your vet about the most appropriate vaccination protocol for your herd.

Bovine Respiratory Disease Vaccines

Clostridial Disease Vaccines

References

1. Department of Agriculture, Food & Marine – Beef Welfare Scheme 2026.

*Mannheimia haemolytica A1 and A6.

** Calves vaccinated between 2 weeks and 3 months of age must be vaccinated via the intranasal route of administration. Next vaccination should be given at 3-4 months of age.

*** Depending on severity of risk of infection from C. haemolyticum.

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