Paul Sykes will continue in his position as breed secretary of the Irish Limousin Cattle Society.
The society issued the following statement on the matter in recent days.
“A little bit of good news for once this year! The Irish Limousin Cattle Society is pleased to announce that Paul Sykes has agreed to continue in his position as breed secretary.”
“I am sure you are all as delighted as we are with Paul continuing to lead the Limousin breed. Our current priority is the upcoming Limousin Society premier online sale on Wednesday, November 4th at 7.00pm sharp.”
“Updated catalogue and online sale registration details are available here or www.denisbarrett.com. Videos are currently being uploaded to Facebook.”
12 years of service
In early October, Sykes announced that he would step down from the position after twelve years of service.
Michael Gunn, president of the society, described the Mayo native as a “tremendous” ambassador for the Limousin breed. He established his own herd, under the Cavelands prefix, in 1984.
“During his tenure, the breed has had many successes including moving to number 1 suckler dam of choice in the beef herd, number 1 beef AI sire and number 1 continental breed for the dairy herd to mention just a few.”
“One of Paul’s many strengths is his people skills. If he met you once, he never forgot a face or a name. Paul treated every breeder the same, whether they had one cow or one hundred.”
Paul, the president added, saw the value of Irish Limousin to the UK market, adding that on his visits to Carlisle and other UK sales, he developed close relationships which led to many UK buyers being regular visitors to sales and shows in the Irish Limousin calendar.
He commended his efforts in helping and advising breeders, encouraging young members, attending events, and taking calls often seven-days-a-week.”
Gunn said Sykes played a “huge part” in the success of the International Limousin Congress in 2016.
Paul’s letter to members
Sykes penned a letter to Irish Limousin Cattle Society members following the initial announcement.
“It has been an honour and privilege to lead Irish Limousin during my tenure, not to mention the immense pleasure I experienced working with our breeders.”
“I have made many friends over the years and was always afforded warm hospitality wherever I visited farms or events. Likewise, I have made many friends while representing the Society at the ILC and particularly on my many trips to the UK and to France.”
“Over the years difficult and sometimes unpopular decisions had to be taken, however, I was always treated with great respect.”
“Thank you to all the council members, presidents, and club officers who I worked with over the years and who always offered great support. I am indebted to the society staff, current and past, for all their assistance, guidance, and dedication.”
