Doing it for themselves

Ray Ryan

“By the engagement of more and more women in farming, a new wealth of talent is being brought to bear, which can only have a positive impact on the success of the industry and on rural life,” said President Mary McAleese, four years ago.

Women represent 30% of the agricultural workforce. According to the 1991 Census of Agriculture, 40,000 women contributed a 1,800-hour working year to the industry. They provide analytical skills, contribute to strategic development, “look after the books” and manage the ‘red tape’ of modern farming. Farm women are also involved in livestock care and provide ‘life support’ systems, as carers and household managers.