Wexford horticulturalist in the line-up for prominent agri-leadership conference

A Wexford woman will present her horticultural findings from her own research at an upcoming prominent Agri-leadership conference….

Wexford horticulturalist Liagh Whelehan from Gorey is among the scholars who will present the findings of her research on ‘Future proofing people management in Irish Agriculture’ at the upcoming 2024 Nuffield Ireland conference ‘Shaping the Future of Irish Agriculture.’

The conference is set to take place in the Mount Wolseley Hotel, Carlow on Friday 15^th November 2024. The annual event, sponsored by FBD Trust, will also include a fireside chat on leadership in agribusiness with former Group MD of Glanbia plc, Siobhán Talbot.

Liagh Whelehan’s research focused on the commercial viability of sustainable horticultural practices in controlled environment crop production. The study aimed to increase the efficiency of young plant production, addressing challenges like policy changes, fluctuating consumer demands, labour availability, climate change, and rising input costs.

Key findings include the need for optimised space usage, crop selection to maximise returns, and alternative growing approaches to maintain quality and profit margins.

The research highlighted the importance of reducing dependency on pesticides, leveraging technology for improved efficiency, and innovative problem-solving.

Recommendations included precision input usage, targeted crop selection, increased engagement with non-chemical solutions, and technology adoption.

The study emphasised the need for collaboration within the industry and tailoring solutions to specific production environments.

2024 Nuffield Ireland Conference

Alongside Liagh, attendees at this year’s conference will hear from the other five returning 2023 Scholars coming to the end of their two-year programme including: 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; 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 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.

Meanwhile, in related Wexford farming news, a Wexford dairy farmer has won an award and will now act in an ambassadorial role for dairy farmers across the county.