Policy
Food Vision 2030 - A World Leader in Sustainable Food Systems
Published on: 5 January 2022
- 1. Food Vision 2030
- 2. Executive Summary
- 3. The Policy Context
- 4. Mission 1 – A Climate Smart, Environmentally Sustainable Agri-Food Sector
- 5. Mission 2 – Viable and Resilient Primary Producers, with Enhanced Wellbeing
- 6. Mission 3 – Food that is Safe, Nutritious and Appealing, Trusted and Valued at Home and Abroad
- 7. Mission 4 – An Innovative, Competitive and Resilient Agri-Food Sector, Driven by Technology and Talent
- 8. Monitoring and Implementation
- 9. Food Vision 2030 – Annual Reports
- 10. Environmental Assessment
- 11. Strategy Stakeholder Committee and Process for Getting Here
- 12. Food Vision Event – 13 October 2022
- 13. UN Food Systems Summit 2021
- 14. Open Policy Debate - October 2019
- 15. Women in Agriculture
- 16. Commission on Generational Renewal in Farming
The Food Vision 2030 Strategy is a new ten year Strategy for the Irish agri-food sector (taken to include primary agriculture, food and drink processing and manufacturing, fisheries, aquaculture and fish processing, forestry and forestry processing and the equine sector).
Its Vision is that Ireland will become a world leader in Sustainable Food Systems (SFS) over the next decade. This will deliver significant benefits for the Irish agri-food sector itself, for Irish society and the environment. In demonstrating the Irish agri-food sector meets the highest standards of sustainability – economic, environmental, and social – this will also provide the basis for the future competitive advantage of the sector.
By adopting an integrated food systems approach, Ireland will seek to become a global leader of innovation for sustainable food and agriculture systems, producing safe, nutritious, and high-value food that tastes great, while protecting and enhancing our natural and cultural resources and contributing to vibrant rural and coastal communities and the national economy.
The Strategy consists of 22 Goals, grouped into four high-level Missions for the sector to work toward:
1) A Climate Smart, Environmentally Sustainable Agri-Food Sector
2) Viable and Resilient Primary Producers with Enhanced Well-Being
3) Food Which is Safe, Nutritious And Appealing, Trusted And Valued at Home and Abroad
4) An Innovative, Competitive and Resilient Agri-Food Sector, Driven by Technology And Talent
The Irish agri-food sector includes primary agriculture, food and drink processing and manufacturing, fisheries, aquaculture and fish processing, forestry and forestry processing and the equine sector. It is Ireland’s oldest and largest indigenous industry. In 2020, the sector accounted for almost 7% of GNI* and 10% of exports in value terms. At primary production level, some 137,500 farms, over 770,000 hectares of forest, over 2,000 fishing vessels and some 180 aquaculture sites produced an estimated €8.5 billion in output in 2019.
The agri-food sector grew substantially over the past decade, with Irish food and drink exports increasing from by 60% from €8.9 billion in 2010 to €14.2 billion in 2020. The sector produces food and ingredients with a global reputation for quality and safety, with a livestock sector built on an enviable grass based production system. Global demand for high quality food is increasing with population, urbanization and affluence, and the Irish agri-food sector is well placed to play a role in meeting this demand.
The broad agri-food sector also has a key role in protecting our climate and environment. Facing into the decade to 2030, the agri-food sector can make significant and urgent improvements in its environmental footprint. With leadership from stakeholders, the sector can take the steps necessary to improve its environmental performance and protect and enhance its reputation as a sustainable producer of quality food. It will also mean that Ireland can take a leading position internationally as an advocate of Sustainable Food Systems.
The Food Vision 2030 Strategy was developed with this context in mind, and aims to balance economic, social and environmental sustainability under a holistic Food Systems approach.
There are seven Goals in this Mission that aim to deliver a climate-neutral food system by 2050, with verifiable progress achieved by 2030, encompassing emissions reductions, carbon sequestration, improvements in air quality, restoration and enhancement of biodiversity, improvements in water quality, development of diverse forests, enhanced seafood sustainability, exploring the bioeconomy and strengthening Origin Green.
There are four Goals in this Mission which involve improving the competitiveness and productivity of primary producers, increasing the creation of value and distributing it fairly, introducing greater diversification in production systems and incomes, and improving the social sustainability of primary producers across areas such as generational renewal, gender balance, health and safety, mental health and wellbeing and rural development.
There are four Goals in this Mission that aim to prioritise coherent food and health policies for better health outcomes, enhance consumer trust in our food system, create value add through insight, innovation and product differentiation, and developing market and trade opportunities both at home and abroad.
There are seven Goals in this Mission which are relevant to all other Missions and will act as key enablers. They include moving to a challenge-focused innovation system, having a strategic approach to funding R&D, developing dynamic knowledge exchange practices, enhancing the use of technology and data, improving competitiveness and resilience, attracting and nurturing diverse and inclusive talent, and improving policy coherence in Sustainable Food Systems between Irelands domestic policy and its development cooperation and foreign policy.
The success of this Strategy will depend on effective implementation and oversight. For this reason, a Monitoring and Implementation Framework is included in the Strategy.
This highlights areas for collaboration and partnership within the sector but also with key external stakeholders. It also details oversight and monitoring mechanisms for implementation, including the establishment of a High Level Implementation Committee chaired by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, and its key task will be to ensure the delivery of the four Missions. Significant detail is also given on the critically important area of environmental monitoring. A detailed implementation plan has been published and is available to download.
Food Vision 2030 Dashboard
The Food Vision 2030 Dashboard is a key component of the implementation and monitoring of Food Vision 2030 and the subsequent Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) that was carried out. The dashboard will be launched on a phased basis. Phase 1 focuses on Mission 1 environmental indicators and establishes baseline environmental data that will be used to assess, monitor, and identify any significant environmental effects arising from the implementation of the strategy. Phase 2 will expand the dashboard to include economic and social sustainability indicators for Missions 2, 3 and 4 and will be launched at a later date.
Please note that this version is the baseline data reporting from Q3 2023, it is envisaged that in early 2025 the dashboard will be updated to reflect data reporting for 2024.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the data contained in this dashboard, in view of the volume of data, some errors may occur. Where these anomalies are identified, the Department will liaise to amend as required.
Access to the dashboard can be found at the following link: Food Vision 2030 Dashboard
Food Vision 2030 – High Level Implementation Committee
Implementation of Food Vision 2030 is overseen by a High-Level Implementation Committee (HLIC) chaired by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
Terms of Reference of Food Vision 2030 High Level Implementation Committee
Food Vision 2030 – Terms of Reference of High Level Implementation Committee
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Food Vision 2030 High Level Implementation Committee Reports
Minutes of First Meeting of High Level Implementation Committee Meeting – 24 November 2021
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Minutes of Second Meeting of High Level Implementation Committee Meeting – 3 March 2022
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Minutes of Third Meeting of High Level Implementation Committee Meeting – 25 May 2022
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Minutes of Fourth Meeting of High Level Implementation Committee Meeting – 26 October 2022
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Minutes of Fifth Meeting of High Level Implementation Committee Meeting – 30 November 2022
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Minutes of Sixth Meeting of High Level Implementation Committee Meeting – 08 Februrary 2023
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Minutes of Seventh Meeting of High Level Implementation Committee Meeting – 10 May 2023
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Minutes of Eighth Meeting of High Level Implementation Committee Meeting – 05th of October 2023
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Minutes of Ninth Meeting of High Level Implementation Committee Meeting – 06th of December 2023
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Minutes of Tenth Meeting of High Level Implementation Committee Meeting – 06 March 2024
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Minutes of Eleventh Meeting of High Level Implementation Committee Meeting – 19th of June 2024
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If you require any of the presentations mentioned in the meeting reports, you can request it by emailing EconomicsandPlanning@agriculture.gov.ie .
Food Vision 2030 Environmental Working Sub-Group (EWSG)
An Environmental Working Sub-Group (EWSG) was established as a sub-group of the High-Level Implementation Committee (HLIC) to oversee monitoring of any significant effects of implementation of Food Vision 2030. The Sub-Group will remain in place for the duration of the current Food Vision 2030 strategy and will report annually to the HLIC.
EWSG Meeting Agendas
EWSG Meeting Reports
In accordance with EU Directive 2001/42/EC and the European Communities (Environmental Assessment of Certain Plans and Programme) Regulations 2004 (SI 435 of 2004), as amended by the European Communities (Environmental Assessment of Certain Plans and Programmes) (Amendment) Regulations 2011 (SI 200 of 2011), a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) was carried out on the draft Agri-Food Strategy to 2030 and its findings were presented in an Environmental Report. An Appropriate Assessment was also carried out and a Natura Impact Statement prepared pursuant to Article 6 of Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the conservation of natural habitats and of wild fauna and flora as transposed into Irish law by S.I. the European Communities (Birds and Natural Habitats) Regulations 2011 (477/2011) as amended.
• Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Statement
• Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Non- technical summary
• Environmental Report
• Appropriate Assessment (AA) Determination
• Appropriate Assessment (AA) Conclusion Statement
• Appropriate Assessment (AA) Natura Impact Statement
Scoping and public consultation documents and associated submissions can be found at the following links:
A committee of stakeholders from across the agri-food sector and beyond was established in November 2019, chaired by Tom Arnold. The Committee met throughout 2020 and into 2021. Their terms of reference were to develop the vision and key objectives, with associated actions, to ensure the economic, environmental and social sustainability of the agri-food sector in the period to 2030. The process was aided by extensive public consultation. An initial consultation took place in 2019, this was followed by an ‘Open Policy Debate’ [insert link to this], and the draft Strategy, along with the associated Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Appropriate Assessment (AA) were subject to public consultation in 2021. The final Strategy takes account of these consultations and the recommendations of the SEA and AA.
A Food Vision 2030 Event was held at The Printworks, Dublin Castle on 13 October 2022 to discuss Food Vision 2030, the shared strategy for the sustainable development of the Irish agri-food sector, with its stated ambition to be a ‘World Leader in Sustainable Food Systems’.
Food Vision was developed by a Committee of stakeholders, independently chaired by Tom Arnold, and will act as a framework to guide the sector to achieve its missions and goals in the decade ahead. The well-attended event in Dublin Castle heard from guest speakers who provided an international perspective, and from a number of panels exploring the development and implementation of Food Vision 2030 through its four key missions.
Food Vision 2030 Event – A World Lead in Sustainable Food Systems Programme
The programme for the Food Vision 2030 – World Leader in Sustainable Food Systems Event
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Opening Address by An Taoiseach Micheál Martin, TD
International Perspectives on Sustainable Food Systems
Dr Lawrence Haddad, Executive Director, Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN)
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Tassos Haniotis, Retired Director, DG AGRI Strategy and Policy Analysis
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United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres will host a Food Systems Summit in New York this September. It will be a key part of the Decade of Action to deliver the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Ireland has been actively engaged in the preparations for the Summit, and as part of those preparations we convened a series of four National Dialogues on Ireland’s Food System. As Food Vision 2030 is based on a food systems approach, it will have close links to this major Summit.
Read More Food Systems Summit
The Programme for Government recognises the need to do more on gender equality. As well as being a priority for the Government, gender equality is a key objective of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and a core principle of the European Union. The new Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) Regulations place particular focus on promoting the participation of women in the socio-economic development of rural areas, with special attention to farming.
The CSO’s Census of Agriculture 2020 indicated women account for only 13% of the total 130,216 farm holders in Ireland. At the same time, results showed there were 75,113 female farm workers equating to 27% of the total 278,600 in Ireland. This points to over 58,000 women in Irish farming without visibility or farm holder status. The number of female workers in the primary agriculture, forestry and fishing sector has increased very slightly. Women therefore remain under-represented in the sector. To meet and align with the gender equality expectations and commitments of the agriculture sector in Ireland and in Europe, the visibility, equality and status of women in farming should be an integral part of the preparation, implementation and evaluation of future policy interventions and strategies. However, to underpin these interventions, more research on the topic is required to expand the evidence and knowledge base available to policymakers.
The CAP 2023-2027 Regulations place a new focus on promoting the role of women in rural development, with special attention to farming. Ireland’s €9.8 billion CAP Strategic Plan (CSP) identified gender inequality as a weakness, while the economic benefits of increasing female participation was identified as an opportunity. In consultation with stakeholders, measures which will support greater gender equality have been included:
. An increased grant rate of 60% under the Capital Investment Scheme to fund investments by trained women farmers (TAMS 3).
. The promotion of women-only Knowledge Transfer Groups.
. Improved recording and reporting of gender data and the leveraging of the National CAP Network to increase the involvement of all women in the implementation of CAP.
. All CAP interventions will be developed with a gender-aware perspective to ensure there are no inherent barriers to women’s participation.
. In addition, European Innovation Partnerships offer an ideal opportunity for the sector to develop initiatives that will promote women’s participation in farming.
Image: Food Vision 2030 Cover 25082021
Our shared stakeholder strategy for the wider agri-food sector, recognises the importance of gender bal¬ance to the long-term sustainable future of the agri-food sector. The strategy includes actions and commitments to promote and improve gender balance at all levels within the sector over the 10-year period of the strategy, such as:
• Promoting women’s participation in farming through CAP Knowledge Transfer Groups.
• Capturing and publishing gender data on policy implementation.
• Representation of the sector in developing the next National Women and Girl’s Strategy
• Promoting and improving gender balance in the agri-food sector, but particularly at senior
management and board level.
• Promoting and supporting women’s networks and mentoring programmes, e.g. the
DAFM funded ACORNS programme for rural female entrepreneurs, established in 2015,
• Hosting a National Dialogue on Women in Agriculture.
A National Dialogue on Women in Agriculture with the theme of “Improving Gender Balance in the Agri-Food Sector” took place on 1 February 2023 at the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise, Co. Laois.
Image: Women in Agriculture 2
The event was hosted by Minister McConalogue and chaired by former Minister for Agriculture, Mary Coughlan, Ireland’s first and only female Minister for Agriculture to date. Panel discussions involving high profile female leaders from the sector debated the topics of “The Role of Women in the Agri-Food Sector” and “Women in Farming – Challenges and Opportunities”. Guest speakers at the event included Ministers of State Hackett and Heydon, and Ms Julia Klockner, former German Minister for food and agriculture. The afternoon delivered several workshops exploring the experience of women in agriculture across the themes of:
• Education and Awareness
• Leadership and Visibility
• Financial and Legal matters
• Sustainability (Social, Economic and Environmental)
The dialogue provided an opportunity for stakeholders to examine gender equality through open and constructive discussion, inputting on how we can work to increase the visibility and status of women in agriculture and the agri-food sector.
The Economics and Planning division of the Department has compiled outcomes of the dialogue into a Report, including a range of recommendations arising from workshops held on the day. The contents of the report can be viewed or downloaded below. Subsequently, a stakeholder working group consolidated these recommendations into an Action Plan.
A 12-point Action Plan has been compiled from the outcomes and recommendations arising from last year’s National Dialogue on Women in Agriculture. The actions cover a wide range of areas, all of which are important to the successful achievement of gender balance within the agriculture sector in Ireland. The was formally launched by Minister Charlie McConalogue and his colleagues Ministers of State Pippa Hackett and Martin Heydon on 31st January 2024. The action plan can be viewed or downloaded below.
Image: Women in Agriculture
1 Host a series of demand driven webinars/local events (considering local needs) to encourage and promote increased female interaction, leadership, and participation in the sector.
2 Increase promotion of agriculture as a viable career for women and young girls in primary and post-primary schools, to be progressed through with Agri Aware and Department of Education.
3 Liaise with Teagasc and third level education providers to ensure that there are options to ensure the highest possible female participation (e.g. for those who have caring responsibilities).
4 Implement the use of more inclusive language and imagery in communications to farmers and about farming.
5 Promote and normalise female succession, including the consideration of any changes required to policy, taxation, legislation and DAFM schemes.
6 Liaise with Dept of Finance and the Revenue Commissioners on any barriers for women farmers within the taxation system, and to ensure greater inclusivity and fairness.
7 DAFM to consider sponsoring an Award within an existing award programme(s)to acknowledge and recognise those who are leading the way in the Agri-food sector.
8 Establish an internal review of DAFM scheme eligibility and educational requirements to ensure maximum opportunities are available to women farmers and to establish a process for the consideration of the issue in the design and implementation of all schemes, including improved recording and reporting of gender data.
9 Review procedures and processes in place for the inclusion of women on herd numbers and Herd-Keeper across the DVO network and external agri-agencies.
10 Create a dedicated “Women in Agriculture” space on the DAFM website.
11 Undertake research on women in agriculture.
12 Promote the role of women in improved sustainability for the sector, social, environmental, and economic.
Image: Women in Agriculture Action Plan
The newly established Women in Agriculture Working Group has been tasked with facilitating and guiding the implementation of the action plan. The group is comprised of a range of representatives from across the sector as outlined below.
| Organisation | Representative | |
| Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine | Elisa Goode (Chair), Ciara Murphy (Secretary),Sharon Boylan | |
| Women in Agriculture Stakeholders Group (WASG) | Mona Concannon | |
| Dairy Women Ireland (DWI) | Mary Kinston | |
| Young Female Farmer Representatives | Louise Crowley, Karen McCabe | |
| Teagasc Head of Education | Dr. Anne-Marie Butler | |
| Agri-food Diversity and Inclusion Forum (AgDIF) | Christine Farrell | |
| Irish Forest Owners | Olive Leavy | |
| Agriculture Solicitor | Aisling Meehan | |
| Waterford Oysters (Aquaculture) | Cliona Mhic Giolla Chuda | |
| Former Head of Education & Research, Airfield Estate | Dr. Kirstie McAdoo | |
| Macra na Feirme | TBC |
The group held its first meeting on 31st January 2024 to coincide with the launch of the action plan. Lead responsibility for each of the actions and desired outcomes have been agreed. Initial steps have been taken on several of the actions and the group will meet regularly to monitor progress. The group will provide updates to the Minister and to the Food Vision 2030 High Level Implementation Committee (HLIC).
Considerable progress has been made in achieving the government’s target of at least 40% female participation on the State Boards currently under the remit of the Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine. The number of women on Boards has increased from 30 to 56, with the appointment and reappointment of 50 women to these Boards. In September 2020 only 2 boards out of 12 at the time had reached the 40% gender target, whereas now 9 out of 13 have reached this target. All boards are asked to nominate both male and female candidates for roles across all boards to further progress this issue. However, under representation is still an issue and leaders must do more to improve the pathways to improved gender balance at board level. The resulting visibility of female leadership will encourage more female participation at all levels in the sector.
To complement the work under the CAP Strategic Plan and Food Vision 2030, the Department has commissioned research projects under “The Policy and Strategic Studies Research Call”.
The " Highlighting pathways to Empower Rural women to have Sustainable & Equitable Livelihoods in Farming " (HER-SELF) project, will analyse existing data on farm income, payments, and capital investments to gain insights into the experience of women of all ages active in the agricultural sector.
It will also endeavour to identify any barriers/enablers and geographical differences in the participation levels, incomes and experiences of women involved in agriculture. The study seeks to establish a baseline position on women in farming and the agriculture sector and provide evidence to underpin future policy interventions and strategies in this area at both a national and local level. The 12-month study is expected to present its findings and recommendations in October 2025.
The " Gender and Generational Factors in Agricultural Resource Management for Sustainability " (GEN-FARMS) project, will explore the role of gender and age in driving innovation and adaptive practices that enhance both economic resilience and environmental sustainability, shaping farm practices in an agricultural sector facing increasing pressure to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. It will assess the current involvement of women and younger people in Irish agriculture. Examine the influence of women and younger people on farm performance e.g. economic viability, investment and environmental sustainability. Propose evidence-based recommendations for promoting more sustainable and equitable farming and ensuring a just transition for Irish agriculture in the face of climate change. By better understanding the intricate relationship between gender, age and farm sustainability, this 12-month project will contribute to the global discourse on agriculture and the importance of diversity and generational perspectives in shaping the future of farming practices. Findings and recommendations are expected in October 2025.
HOME - GRASS Ceiling - (Gender Equality in Rural and Agricultural Innovation Systems) is a multi-actor three-year project, funded by the European Union in the frame of Horizon Europe, grant agreement number 101083408. GRASS CEILING aims to empower rural women and increase the number of socio-ecological innovations led by women in agriculture, the rural economy and rural communities. The project will contribute to advancing the UN’s goals on gender parity, realise the EU Gender Equality Strategy, and achieve the goals of the Green Deal, the Farm to Fork strategy, the Long-Term Vision for Rural Areas, and the European Pillar of Social Rights.
In April 2024 DAFM issued an open call for expressions of interest under the EIP programme on the theme of Gender Balance in Farming in Ireland. A total of nine proposals were received. The successful project Making Farms Work for Women is led by Claire Brennan, Agricultural Advisor. The project was awarded €650,000 of DAFM funding for implementation, raising further awareness and innovative ways of addressing gender balance in the sector and will address the needs of women on Irish farms in relation to working with machinery and livestock.
The new CAP Regulations 2023-2027 place particular focus on promoting the participation of women in the socio-economic development of rural areas, with special attention to farming. Member States are required to strengthen their capacity in gender mainstreaming and the collection of sex disaggregated data. Work is underway to review DAFM data collection processes and systems to ensure the capture of gender data for analysis. This data analysis will inform future policies around gender balance in Irish Farming and can be used to measure improvements in the position of women and young girls active in agriculture in Ireland.
Image: Acorns
Since 2015, the Department has provided support for rural female entrepreneurs under the ACORNS programme. The programme caters for up to 50 new female entrepreneurs in rural locations each year. Over 400 female entrepreneurs have participated in the programme since its introduction. The Programme usually runs from October to April each year. Participants in the programme have reported increased turnover, hiring of additional employees and expansion into exports during the period. The most recent ACORNS participants were very positive regarding their experience of the initiative with 100% stating they would recommend participating in ACORNS to others and would welcome a means of staying in contact with the ACORNS network.
ACORNS celebrates a decade of support for female entrepreneurship in rural Ireland with the launch of the 10th cycle of the business development programme. Applications for ACORNS 10 close at midnight September 20, 2024. There are up to 50 places available for ACORNS 10. Only early-stage female entrepreneurs living in rural Ireland, and who have had no sales before the end of June 2021, are eligible to apply. ACORNS 10 will run from October 2024 to April 2025 and will include six monthly round table sessions, a workshop on understanding financials, a briefing by various development agencies and an end-of-cycle celebration. For more information or to apply visit ACORNS .
RTE Coverage of ACORNS programme - Female entrepreneurs in rural areas praise support group
17th – 19th The National Ploughing Championships, Ratheniska, Co. Laois.
7th - Women in Agriculture: National Dialogue Regional Event - McWilliam Park Hotel, Claremorris
9th - Women in Agriculture: National Dialogue Regional Event - Clayton Hotel Silver Springs, Cork
14th - Women in Agriculture: National Dialogue Regional Event - Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise
29th - Teagasc Sustainability Report Launch - Webinar Registration Zoom
13th – Aware Webinar on Menopause and Mental Health - Webinar Registration - Zoom
14th - Science Week 2024: Webinar on Exploring New Bioeconomy Opportunities for Grass Registration
11th – Aware Webinar on Supporting Someone with a Mental Illness - Webinar Registration - Zoom
8th - International Women's Day - celebrates the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women's equality. IWD has occurred for well over a century, with the first IWD gathering in 1911 supported by over a million people. #Accelerate Action #IWD2025
15th - International Day of Rural Women - In 2008 the United Nations' (UN) formally recognised International Day of Rural Women as a day of global observance and it takes place on October 15th each year.
17th - National Women’s Enterprise Day - Ireland’s largest female enterprise event promotes, encourages and stimulates female entrepreneurship across Ireland. While support is available all year round, National Women’s Enterprise Day opens the prospect of entrepreneurship to women who may not have considered it before. It highlights what support is available, provides valuable networking opportunities and connections with industry experts, and celebrates the achievements of women in enterprise. It tackles issues affecting women in business from finance, marketing, innovation, and new product development to family, well-being, and mental health.
INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF THE WOMAN FARMER - The United Nations (UN) General Assembly declare 2026 as International Year of the Woman Farmer. The resolution invites UN Member States and stakeholders to increase awareness of the crucial role that women farmers around the world play in agrifood systems, as well as their contributions to food security, nutrition and poverty eradication. In this regard, the International Year of the Woman Farmer 2026 will serve as a platform for the adoption of effective policies and actions against the barriers and challenges that women farmers face across agrifood systems, as well as to promote gender equality and the empowerment of all women in agriculture. The observance will also highlight the vital role of peasant women and other rural women in ensuring the economic survival of their families and contributing to both the rural and national economies.
It is important that women and young girls owning or working on farms are visible for. To ensure this visibility it is important that women and young girls ensure they apply for a herd number in their own name, a joint herd number with a family member, a registered farm partnership or a herd keeper role all of which are recorded and reported on by DAFM.
Information regarding the herd number application process and to download the required application form(s) can be accessed here .
Thinking about becoming a Registered Farm Partnership? Find out more here .
Networking and expanding your contacts is a great way to increase visibility and to gain mentorship from other women leaders in the sector. It provides peer support and creates an opportunity for knowledge transfer. Why not join or start a women’s networking group or circle in your area via the Leanin.org
CERES CERES – The Women in Agri-Business Leadership Network was founded to develop and promote leadership and diverse thinking within the industry. Through the delivery of a range of dynamic, engaging and thought-provoking events, the network aims to provide a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration and support.
ACORNS - The ACORNS programme has been designed to support early-stage female entrepreneurs living in rural Ireland and runs over six months part-time. Based on a belief that entrepreneurs learn best from each other, the ACORNS initiative is centred around interactive round table sessions that are facilitated by female entrepreneurs, known as ‘Lead Entrepreneurs’, who have started and successfully grown businesses in rural Ireland.
- In line with the European Commission’s 2020-2025 Gender Equality Strategy, the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) now includes a Specific Objective aimed at enhancing the position of women in farming and accelerating the social inclusion of rural women. This will be key in reducing the gender gap and advancing gender equality. CAP holds the potential to foster more inclusive rural areas by promoting rural women’s participation and recognition in local decision-making processes, businesses and communities. Featuring valuable perspectives and experiences demonstrating the CAP’s potential to help advance gender equality in rural areas.
The GRASS CEILING project seeks to empower rural and farm women and enhance their role in driving socio-ecological innovations, addressing pressing challenges, and fostering resilience in rural areas across nine European countries.
Are you overwhelmed by the sheer volume of education and training options available for further and higher education? Are you trying to decide what course is best for you? There are lots of resources available to help you find out about the courses on offer and assist you in choosing the one that best fits your needs.
CareersPortal.ie is a centralised career guidance portal, established in 2008. Public and private organisations disseminate the most up-to-date information about career sectors, occupations, labour market information, and educational and training opportunities across all sectors of the economy. It is a resource available to 2nd & 3rd Level Students and Graduates, Adult Learners, Jobseekers and their Support Services, Parents and Guardians, Career Guidance Professionals and Teachers.
Courses.ie Courses within the Agriculture & Veterinary vary from Animal Science and Equine Studies to Aquaculture and Farm Science. There is a broad and interesting selection to choose from if working with animals is the route you'd like to take. Visit Courses.ie, which lists and promotes Agriculture & Veterinary programmes delivered by schools and colleges from around the country.
SOLAS is the State agency that oversees the building of a world class Further Education & Training (FET) sector in Ireland, developing skills to fuel Ireland’s future. FET is for everyone, is available in every community and offers a pathway to take you as far as you want to go.
Skills to Advance/Solas/Learning Works is a national initiative that provides upskilling and reskilling opportunities to employees in jobs undergoing change and to those currently employed in vulnerable sectors. Skills to Advance aims to equip employees with the skills they need to progress in their current role or to adapt to the changing job market including micro credentials and green skills.
Generation Apprenticeship Unlike standard college courses, an apprenticeship allows you to earn money and become qualified while you are learning on-the-job, opening exciting and rewarding careers. There are several apprenticeships now available in the agriculture and horticulture sector.
Teagasc/Agriculture and Food Development Authority Teagasc deliver several Agriculture Courses. These further level courses are suitable for people who wish to make a career in agriculture. Teagasc QQI accredited courses are suitable for future farmers and for people seeking employment on farms and in the agri-food industry.
Teagasc Distance Education Green Cert Teagasc Agriculture and Food Development Authority - This course has been developed to meet the training requirements of graduates from other non-agricultural award programme who are interested in farming
Why not watch the below 2023 Teagasc webinar which explores a career in the land-based sector (agriculture, horticulture, equine & forestry). The webinar was hosted by a female student from Kildalton Agricultural College who progressed to a degree in SETU.
Mountbellew Agricultural College - Providing a comprehensive range of training programmes for those engaged in the agricultural and food-related sector. Programmes available at Mountbellew have been designed to promote understanding of specific topics, such as, rural enterprise and agri-business, environmental management and agricultural engineering. Mountbellew is a private college partnering with Teagasc and ATU in delivering a number of programmes from Level 5 to Level 8.
Home - Training (gurteencollege.ie) Gurteen College provides a high-quality education to students from across Ireland, our courses range from Level 5 Certificate in Agriculture through to Level 8 Honours Degree in Agricultural Science and Sustainability.
International Graduate Programme - Bord Bia / Irish Food Board At Bord Bia we believe in nurturing the next generation of talent, while experiencing the vastness of the world at large. All this while gaining a Masters qualification in Global Business Practice from UCD Smurfit Business School.
Micro-Credentials Learner Fee Subsidy offers up to 80% in fee reductions on over 14,000 course places.
National Tertiary Office – Tertiary degree courses are an additional route to third level education which do not require applicants to provide leaving certificate points. Courses are offered at further education colleges (fee free) and progress directly to partnered higher education colleges.
Agri Aware is the Irish agri-food educational body creating National awareness of the value of agriculture and farming, the stewardship of the rural environment, animal welfare and the benefits of nutritious Irish food. Agri Aware is a charitable trust funded by the farming and agri-food industry to deliver high impact educational and public awareness initiatives, building a more informed and engaged public through school programmes, events for the public and media campaigns.
Welcome EU Farmbook (eufarmbook.eu) - EU-FarmBook is a Horizon Europe project that is working at regional, national, and European (EU) levels to build an Online Platform. Gathering and sharing agriculture and forestry knowledge. EU-FarmBook is the answer to real needs of farmers, foresters and advisors. The Horizon Europe project offers an interactive, multi-lingual meeting place for agriculture and forestry communities, giving access to trustworthy knowledge objects according to findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable (FAIR) data principles. EU-FarmBook users can interact and explore innovative ways to solve their daily challenges.
Agriculture & Horticulture Training Courses/FRS Training FRS has been in the business of training since 1980. As an established and growing centre for learning FRS helps grow farm enterprises, people and careers through personal and professional development. FRS are a validated QQI, PHECC, SOLAS, ILM, City and Guilds and Lantra centre, providing certified training across many sectors.
FRS Farm Traineeship Fully funded by Laois and Offaly ETB, in conjunction with FRS Farm Services, this Farm Traineeship offers an invaluable opportunity to individuals who are keen to enter the farming sector, regardless of their previous agricultural work experience. The programme covers in-class lessons, practical training, and guaranteed work experience to prepare for jobs across several areas in farming. On completion, participants will have the skills and confidence to pursue a career on farm.
Tractor Driving Course for Women - FRS Training has partnered with young female farmer and farm influencer Sophie Bell to introduce a female only safe tractor driving course. The one-day course provides a female-focussed learning environment with hands-on learning and classroom learning. To book your place on the next course book now.
There are a range of financial and legal supports available for those working in the agriculture sector.
The Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI), delivers a range of access to finance supports on behalf of the Government of Ireland for Farmers, Fishers, Foresters and Food Businesses. Current supports offer working capital and medium to long-term investment funding to businesses and agricultural enterprises including farmers, fishers, foresters and food businesses.
Several Irish Financial institutions also offer products to support the agri-food sector. Check out their offerings below:
The National Enterprise Hub is a one-stop shop where you can easily find and learn about the range of government support programs available to Irish businesses. The Hub makes it easier than ever to access the resources and guidance you need to succeed.
The Department of Social Protection’s Farm Assist Scheme provides support to low-income farmers. To find out more information check out the presentation below:
Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI) and related benefit entitlements for farmers and farm workers. For more information check out the presentation below:
State Pensions Information & Entitlements for the employed and self-employed active in the agriculture sector.
State Pensions Information & Entitlements Presentation
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The Nursing Home Support Scheme – more commonly known as the “Fair Deal” Scheme provides financial support to help pay for the cost of nursing home care for elderly parents or relatives.
A guide to Farm Succession Planning is available on the Teagasc website. Always seek independent legal and financial advice when considering a farm succession plan. The Department of Agriculture, Food, and the Marine provides financial assistance towards the costs involved in succession planning. Apply for the Succession Planning Advice Grant (SPAG) here .
Sustainability is key to an economically viable and resilient agri-food sector in Ireland. This can be achieved through the adoption of innovative and sustainable practices and new technologies, and their impact on farm sustainability (economic, environmental and social). Women are more aware of sustainability concerns and are more inclined to innovate and diversify to ensure a farm enterprise operates in a sustainable way.
Food Vision 2030 recognises the potential role of women and young farmers as key enablers of improved farm sustainability.
Find out about the Sustainable Use Directive, the Teagasc National Farm Survey Sustainability report (2015) and research on Sustainabiltiy on the Teagasc website.
Bord Bia’s Origin Green Ireland Programme is Ireland’s pioneering food and drink sustainability programme, operating on a national scale, uniting government, the private sector and the full supply chain from farmers to food producers and right through to the foodservice and retail sectors. The programme is the worlds’ only national food and drink sustainability programme, and enables the industry to set and achieve measurable sustainability targets that respect the environment and serve local communities more effectively.
Image: Women in Ag Bord Bia Logo1
Image: Women in Ag Bord Bia Logo2
AgNav Bord Bia, Teagasc and ICBF are collaborating to create AgNav, a farmer-centric sustainability support framework which utilises the three agencies’ collective knowledge, data, support tools and other resources, to enable delivery against Climate Action Plan targets for the agri sector.
www.businessforbiodiversity.ie - encourage and incentivise Irish businesses to assess their impacts and dependencies on biodiversity. Established in 2022, Business for Biodiversity Ireland is driving the transition to a nature positive Irish economy, where activities enhance natural systems in addition to minimising impact, by harnessing the energy and innovation capacity of Irish businesses. Business for Biodiversity Ireland seeks to contribute to the realisation of Ireland’s Vision for Biodiversity .
Forestry - Coillte - Ireland’s semi-state forestry company, is responsible for managing forested lands. It is the nation’s largest forester and producer of certified wood, a natural, renewable and sustainable resource. Coillte is also the largest provider of outdoor recreation space in Ireland, it enables wind-energy on the estate, processes forestry by-products and undertakes nature rehabilitation projects of scale. Coillte is part of a wider forestry sector, that together manages approximately 11% of Ireland's land, supports 12,000 jobs and contributes €2.3bn to the economy annually.
Other Diversification information resources:
The following resources are also helpful:
Marginal Abatement Cost Curve 2023 - Teagasc Agriculture and Food Development Authority - The new Teagasc MACC to assist farmers and the agriculture industry to reduce Greenhouse gas emissions, was launched on Wednesday, 12 July by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue TD, in Teagasc Ashtown, Dublin.
Farm Well Hub - Farm Well Hub is a community-driven initiative designed to support the mental and physical well-being of farmers. Providing practical resources, creating a space for open conversation, to help farmers across the country thrive and ensuring every farmer has access to the tools they need to manage their well-being, reduce stress, and tackle the unique challenges they face. Farm Well also provide regular information webinars on wellness, nutrition, mental health, social connection, addiction, isolation and loneliness in the farming community.
On Feirm Ground 2 – Engage Training - On Feirm Ground 2 is a training programme that equips agricultural professionals and service providers with skills, knowledge, and competencies to engage farmers on their health and wellbeing and to signpost farmers to appropriate support services.
Farmer HealthChecks - The Farmer Health Check programme, run by the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) and Croí, and funded by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine is a mobile health service offering free health assessments and tailored advice specifically for farmers and their families across the Republic of Ireland.
The programme provides a quick and comprehensive overview of your health, focusing on areas such as heart disease risk, early detection of diabetes, mental health, and wellbeing, as well as crucial information on prostate and skin cancer. You will also be informed about local support services available to you. Dates and venues for upcoming checks are available on the website.
Macra Na Feirme – Make the Moove is a mental health initiative providing awareness talks, awareness campaigns and training in partnership with UCD Agri Mental Health Group.
The Farming Week and AgriFocus - The weekly and fortnightly podcasts produced by the Agriland editorial team are among the Top 10 agri-podcasts in the Irish and UK charts
National Dialogue on Women in Agriculture Report January 2024
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National Dialogue on Women in Agriculture Action Plan January 2024
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ESRI Gender and Labour Market Inclusion Report click here .
National Dialogue on Women in Agriculture Report January 2024
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National Dialogue on Women in Agriculture Action Plan January 2024
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The challenge of attracting young people into a career in farming is widely recognised, both at national and EU level. In Ireland, 7% of farmers are under 35 years of age and over 30% of farmers are over 65. Demographic challenges for the agricultural sector are not unique to Ireland as these figures are similar for the EU as a whole. The family farm is at the heart of agriculture in Ireland and supporting young farmers and facilitating generational renewal is critical to ensure a bright future for the agri-food sector.
In October, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue TD, established a Commission on Generational Renewal in Farming. Mr. Aidan O’Driscoll chairs the Commission, comprising of a small group of people with relevant expertise and experience, which is adopting an objective, evidence-based approach to examining all the complex factors involved. The Commission will also engage closely with stakeholders before issuing a report on options as part of the Food Vision 2030 process.