SMEs need State and bank support to thrive

The agrifood industry is facing into an immense period of opportunity and challenge.

How policymakers, entrepreneurs, farmers, and co-ops respond will dictate how much wealth can be created for individuals and Ireland as a whole.

As we approach the end of March, the dairy industry will be just 12 months away from its largest upheaval in 30 years. Already, there are indicators that dairy farmers are paving the way for a sharp uplift in output. Processors also have boots on the ground at new production facilities that will manufacture products for markets across the globe, especially in developing milk markets in Asia.