Green global image could see Ireland the Silicon Valley for food
Among the strengths they saw were our positive global image as a “green island”; our clear competitive advantage in production of milk and beef from grass; our food and agriculture expansion plan in place, drawn up and supported by the sector; and the improved attitude towards careers in the sector for highly-educated young people (minimum points for studying agriculture in UCD have risen from 315 in 2007 to 420 in 2010, while applications for courses at agricultural colleges are up 84% on 2008).
An enthusiastic, informed and inspiring minister was seen as an additional strength.
