The skills of sheepdogs are put to the test at the Spring Show in Dublin.
The largest agricultural show in the country, the Spring Show has been held in the RDS (Royal Dublin Society) grounds since the 1890s.
Sheepdog trials are one of the most popular events of the five-day show, and today eight dogs competed for the top prize.
Commentary is provided by Stephen Griffin, a County Dublin sheep farmer who also competes in sheepdog trials. Preparation for such competitions takes place on a daily basis for a farmer and his dog,
We have this every day on the farm.
Mr J Brady from County Antrim with his dog Buff works four sheep around the course. The most difficult parts are when the sheep must be driven into the enclosure, and for the dog to separate one particular sheep from the flock. Patience is required here, as
Every movement of your feet even, shifts the sheep from the opening of the pen.
Pups can start to be trained from three to four months old, or as soon as they begin to take interest in the sheep. Stephen Griffin says it takes twelve months of training to get dogs up to a satisfactory level.
This report from 'On The Land' was broadcast on 7 May 1962. The reporter is Patrick Jennings.
'On the Land' was a weekly programme for farmers broadcast from 1962 to 1971. Jack White, Head of Public Affairs, Telefís Éireann, wrote "Good cover of farming is a basic duty for a television network that serves an agricultural country. Telefís Éireann is anxious to do its bit to make for a better life on the land." (RTV Guide, 9 February 1966. Vol.1, No.11, p.6)
