Future under the spotlight at Nuffield event

This year’s event will also hear from the six returning Nuffield Scholars, who will present the findings of research on a number of evolving issues which are shaping the future of the sector.

Offaly organic farmer and artisan food producer Margaret Edgill will report on a blueprint for farm diversification through agri-food tourism. 

Kilkenny dairy farmer Bryan Daniels will address clover in Irish grassland agriculture, while Laois dairy farmer David Fennelly will outline his research on alternative pasture management to address the nitrates challenge.

Offaly agronomist Thomas Murray will ask what is next for potato and vegetable production in Ireland, and Laois horticulturalist Liagh Whelehan will present methods to improve sustainability in plant production in controlled environments.

Carlow, graduate development manager at Ifac Gillian Willis, will discuss future-proofing people management in Irish agriculture.

Speaking at the launch, Michael Berkery, chairman of sponsor FBD Trust, said: “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.” 

Nuffield Ireland chairman Joe Leonard added: “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.”

The organisation also announced the details of its four 2025 Nuffield Ireland scholars.

These include:

• Marina Conway, forester from Sligo and former CEO of Western Forestry Co-op;
• Majella McCafferty, from Leitrim farming stock and Farm Advocacy Manager at the National Dairy Council (NDC);
• Zoe McKay, dairy farming with her partner in Mayo and Assistant Professor at UCD School of Agriculture and Food Science; and 
• Seamus McMenamin, from a sheep and suckler farm in West Tyrone and Sector Manager for Sheep meat and Livestock at Bord Bia.

The Nuffield conference takes place on Friday, November 15.