Leave rat race for a life on chicken farm as property goes up for sale

IT’S NOT every day a “turn-key” chicken farm and detached residence come on the market.

The chicken shed and five-bedroom property at Ballinoe, Castlemahon is being guided at €340,000.

While you wouldn’t describe the sum of money as “chicken feed” it wouldn’t buy you a three-bedroom semi-detached house in many of the popular city suburbs.

It is being offered for sale by John Giltinane & Associates who say the residence is perfect for a growing family and is in superb condition. There is also a study / office, perfect for the working from home prerequisite.

“The property also boasts a 22,000 capacity chicken shed that was built in 2004. Castlemahon and Knockaderry are both within a short distance of the residence and boast all local amenities such as shops, bars and primary schools. The residence is only 35 minutes from Limerick city. It hosts some of the world’s leading pharmaceutical, medical devices and business hubs in Raheen and Castletroy,” say the auctioneers.

Interestingly, last year, IFA national poultry chair Nigel Sweetman and IFA national pig chair Roy Gallie noted the opening of new agri apprenticeship schemes.

“It will afford young people an opportunity to access experience within the industry which can open a path to management and partnerships across all farming sectors including pig and poultry,” MrSweetnam said.

READ MORE: New programme is blueprint to aid profit and sustainability

“It is important to highlight the incorporation of poultry into these courses, expanding the scope and diversity of learning opportunities for the next generation of farmers.

"Participants will learn about poultry husbandry, biosecurity measures, disease management, and welfare considerations. This addition not only expands the skillset of apprentices but also addresses the increasing demand for skilled professionals in the poultry industry,” he added.

Mr Gallie said the introduction of these courses comes at a time when they are most needed and will hopefully encourage new young farmers into our pig and poultry sectors, which is of utmost importance for food security into the future.
The chicken farm and property in Castlemahon could be the ideal fresh start for someone wishing to leave the rat race.