Offaly organic farmer and agronomist in the line-up for prominent agri-leadership conference
Offaly organic farmer and artisan food producer Margaret Edgill from Daingean and agronomist Thomas Murray from Banagher are among the scholars who will present the findings of their research at the upcoming 2024 Nuffield Ireland conference ‘Shaping the Future of Irish Agriculture’ which takes place in the Mount Wolseley Hotel, Carlow on Friday 15th November 2024. The annual event, sponsored by premium investor, FBD Trust, will also include a fireside chat on leadership in agribusiness with former Group MD of Glanbia plc, Siobhán Talbot.
Margaret Edgill
Margaret Edgill’s research ‘Agriculture & Tourism Synergy: Paving the Way for Farm Diversification and Rural Prosperity’ highlights the potential of agritourism to revitalise Ireland’s rural economy. By diversifying their operations, farmers can enhance their income, create jobs, and attract tourists to rural areas. The study emphasises the need for a comprehensive National Agritourism Strategy to support this growth. Key enablers include government support, aligned stakeholders, and a focus on sustainability. By learning from international models, Ireland can position itself as a leading destination for agritourism, contributing to both economic and social development.
Thomas Murray
Thomas Murray’s research on ‘The future of Potato and Vegetable production in Ireland: What next?’ investigated how to improve the profitability and sustainability of the Irish potato and carrot industry. The study highlighted several challenges facing the sector, including declining primary producers, lack of independent research, below-cost selling, and competitive imports. Key findings include the significant volume of imported potato and vegetable products on Irish shelves, despite the country’s reputation for producing these crops. The research emphasised the potential for import substitution, which could mitigate risks for growers and promote sustainability. The study also explored market trends, noting the growing demand for convenience and prepared products. The research recommended increased collaboration between research, breeding, production, and market sectors to improve knowledge sharing and benchmarking. By learning from international best practices and adopting sustainable production methods, the Irish potato and carrot industry can enhance its competitiveness and long-term viability.
2024 Nuffield Ireland Conference
Alongside Margaret and Thomas, attendees at this year’s conference will hear from the other four returning 2023 Scholars coming to the end of their two-year programme including: Kilkenny dairy farmer Bryan Daniels will address clover in Irish grassland agriculture; Laois dairy farmer David Fennelly will outline his research on alternative pasture management to address the nitrates challenge; Laois horticulturalist Liagh Whelehan will present methods to improve sustainability in plant production in controlled environments; and Carlow graduate development manager with Ifac Gillian Willis will discuss future proofing people management in Irish agriculture.
Speaking at the launch, Michael Berkery, Chairman of FBD Trust said “FBD is delighted to continue our partnership with Nuffield Ireland as sponsor of this year’s conference and scholarships. Nuffield scholars regularly go on to become key drivers of change and innovation in farming, the agri-industry and the food sector. As a founding member of Nuffield Ireland, we are proud to support the next generation of agri-leaders, and we wish them luck as they embark on their Nuffield studies.”
“The Nuffield network purpose is to identify potential agricultural leaders, support them through a demanding two-year programme of self-development, networking and research travels, to come back with findings, conclusions and recommendations which will help to shape the future of Irish agriculture. Our conference is open to all, from alumni to potential candidates, agribusiness stakeholders or anyone with a deep interest in the future of Irish agriculture. We look forward to an engaging and thought-provoking day”, Joe Leonard concluded.
Bookings for the 2024 Nuffield Ireland Conference are open, and can be made here: https://nuffield.ie/nuffield-conference/
