Walsh new boss at Dairygold Co-op
He was vice-chairman of the outgoing board and was elected chairman of the near €1 billion a year turnover society at the first meeting of the new board in Mallow yesterday.
A Co Cork farmer, Cornelius Hallahan, who comes from the co-op’s Toames branch in mid Cork, was elected vice-chairman.
After his election, Mr Walsh said the new board is committed to building a strong co-op capable of delivering for its farmers, employees and customers in today’s increasingly challenging dairy sector.
“We all need to support the drive and the challenge to build Dairygold into a world-class food company capable of supporting a sustainable livelihood for farmers,” he said.
Mr Walsh said that for Dairygold to prosper in the face of the challenges facing the sector, there is a big job to be done.
“Our priority now is to work with our new chief executive to deliver competitive and efficient processing and to position Dairygold as a strong consumer foods company.
“A comprehensive review of the society’s rules is also underway and this will enhance the future operation of the society in pursuit of our commercial goals,” he said.
Mr Walsh said Dairygold is a strong co-op with a proud heritage, excellent processing and strong consumer brands in the Irish market.
“I look forward enthusiastically to working with my fellow board members and the Dairygold executive in facing the tough decisions and challenges that have to be faced in the next few years.
“We go forward with determination and confidence to ensure that the business will successfully deliver on its potential in the next few years,” he said.
