Hurleys reap rewards of a quality-driven farm
Neil and Joan Hurley, who run a 50-cow spring herd with an average yield of 1,300 gallons per cow, were presented with their Glanbia Crystal Churn Award at a function in Kilkenny by Minister of State Liam Aylward.
They supply milk to Glanbia's Kilmeaden Cheese Plant and Glanbia's Ingredient Plant at Ballyragget, Co Kilkenny. Their farm is quality assured under the Glanbia Farm Quality Assurance Scheme.
Minister Aylward said Glanbia had some 6,500 milk producers spread across practically the entire island.
He said they worked diligently to supply high-quality milk and played a pivotal role in the maintenance of the company's excellent quality standards.
Glanbia chairman Tom Corcoran said the need to demonstrate and promote the quality and safety of food had never been greater.
"While our own research shows that Irish consumers have a strong trust in Irish dairy products, it is up to us to reward and defend that trust by addressing every potential risk that may undermine it," he said.
Crystal Churn Awards and Gain Feeds vouchers were presented to regional winners: Glanbia Dairies Michael and Camilla Hayes, Orchardstown Farm, Kilmeaden, Co Waterford; Sth Tipperary-Sth Kilkenny Liam Vereker, Moonveen, Dungarvan, Co Waterford; Waterford-Cork Neil and Joan Hurley, Ballyetra, Dungarvan, Co Waterford; Nth Kilkenny-Donaghmore Liam and Claire Delahunty, John and Teresa Delahunty, Ratheenleigh, Cullahill, Portlaoise, Co Laois; North East Leo and Patricia Collins, Ballgeeth, Ardcath, Garristown, Co Meath; South East Tom and Marie Roche, Monamore, Bagnealstown, Co Carlow.
