Conference delegates told of vital role that women play in agriculture

IT is important that the contribution women make to the agriculture sector is recognised, an international conference was told in Dublin yesterday.

Irish Farmers Association Farm Family Committee chairwoman Mary Sherry said women also carry out the bulk of management and administrative tasks associated with farming.

“Women are also at the forefront of new farming related business opportunities and are the main family carers and household managers. Counting this work, valuing it and supporting it, is vital,” she said.

Ms Sherry also told the International Federation of Agricultural Producers (IFAP) Committee of Women Farmers in Dublin Castle the work of women contributes significantly to the prosperity of individual family farms.

She also told delegates that food security is of major importance and must be addressed by all countries, not just developing ones.

“If Europe is food independent then the production burden on developing countries is reduced and countries can direct their food production to feeding their indigenous population,” she said.

On climate change, Ms Sherry said women are the main producers of food in many countries that will be most affected by climate change.

“However, a climate change deal must not reduce food self-sufficiency in any country, which could result in increased food stress in the least developed countries,” she said.

The Committee of Women Farmers meeting is part of the IFAP Commodities Conference, which also includes meetings of young farmers and other activities.

Hosted by the IFA, the conference continues until Friday. Agriculture Minister Brendan Smith is to address the delegates tomorrow.