According to the London “Daily Mail,” there has been a notable decline in the number of swine in Ireland over the past nine years. In 1903, Ireland had a total of 1,404,586 swine, but by 1905, that number had dropped to 1,164,322. This decrease is believed to be driven by increased competition in the market.

The “killings,” or the number of swine slaughtered for consumption, have also significantly reduced in certain regions. In Limerick, Cork, and Waterford, the weekly “killings” used to range from 15,000 to 20,000, but now they have fallen to just 5,000 to 10,000 per week.

In comparison, Denmark has experienced an increase in swine production. In 1905, the Danes were killing 5,000 swine per week, but in the present day, the estimated number has risen significantly to between 25,000 and 40,000 per week. Similarly, Canada, which previously had very few swine killings, now averages between 25,000 and 30,000 per week.

One of the contributing factors to the decline in swine production in Ireland is the higher cost of production for Irish farmers. Danish and Canadian producers can grow swine at a lower cost per cwt (hundredweight) compared to their Irish counterparts.

Freight charges for transporting swine from Canada to London are 32s per ton during the summer and 20s during the winter. On the other hand, the average freight cost from Denmark to London is 25s. Remarkably, the freight charge from Limerick to London is significantly higher at 32s 4d, which adds to the challenges faced by Irish producers in competing with international markets.

Enniscorthy Echo and South Leinster Advertiser – Friday 22 September 1905