Ordino Livestock Fair Draws Crowds as Government Boosts Aid 40% and Launches Bruna Breed Centre

The second day of Ordino's Fira del Bestiar took place on Saturday at the Plana dels Camps car park, following an opening on Friday that drew one of the highest family attendances in recent years.

Ordino's minor consul, Eduard Betriu, described the event as following the pattern of previous editions and now well-established. He called it a source of satisfaction for farmers, the parish and the government, expressing hope that both tourists and locals would appreciate the primary sector's culture.

Environment, Agriculture and Livestock Minister Guillem Casal emphasised that the spring fair, revived a few years ago, demonstrates the livestock sector's vitality and brings it closer to the public, particularly children and youth. He praised school participation and the warm reception, which helps showcase farming realities in Ordino and across Andorra.

Casal announced that government aid to the primary sector has risen by more than 40% compared to 2023, as part of a broader rethink of support models. The changes go beyond mere increases, focusing on strategic adjustments to boost productivity, strengthen the Andorran Bruna breed and promote diversification between livestock and agriculture.

A key initiative is this year's launch of a Bruna breed rearing centre, managed by Ramaders d'Andorra. It will centralise heifers—future mothers—for better genetic selection, easing the burden on farms, improving meat quality and creating opportunities like a shepherd pool for temporary relief during illnesses or holidays. Casal said the budget allocation ensures a foundation stone will be laid before the legislature ends.

On bear concerns, Casal acknowledged farmers' unease over wild animals but noted no declared damage in the past two years despite eight bears present. He highlighted prevention measures, compensation mechanisms, and aids like GPS systems or fencing materials. Stressing coexistence and education, he pointed out that dog attacks on livestock often exceed bear incidents, citing seven cases over four years at one Segudet farm.

Betriu urged dog owners to follow rules and keep animals leashed, adding that responsible actions would allow harmony between nature, the parish and Andorra.

Casal also addressed broader wildlife management, including wild boar disease risks, and exhaustive bear monitoring to inform farmers, as fencing mountain passes is impractical.