Macra news: Forum steers farmers in the right direction
The forum, part of Macra’s Young Farmer Skillnet, sought to equip participants with essential insights and information to steer their careers in the right direction.
The day started with two farm walks, the first on the land of Pádraig Keane and the second on the Dempsey family farm. Pádraig began farming at home with his parents John and Gertrude, in 2013. Driven by the need for a sustainable income, the family decided to convert the farm to dairying.
The topics covered included the need to prioritise investment in a start-up enterprise. Young farmers were informed by Pádraig and Pat O’Meara, AIB, of the necessity to spend a significant time and effort in planning and prioritising investment.
The Grasstec team and Michael Keane were on hand to discuss the importance of having the correct conditions for maximising grass growth and utilisation on farm.
Jim Moyles from Teagasc outlined the importance of both quality of life and having a profitable business.
The Dempsey family farm is a beef and sheep farm run by Ray and Mary Dempsey with their son Raymond. The topic of farm succession/progression planning with Austin Finn from the Land Mobility Service highlighted the need for good communications and a clear progression plan.
Prioritising farm investment was discussed by Ray Dempsey and AIB’s Eamon O’Reilly and delegates were informed of the importance of planning and costing.
The merits of a mix of enterprises on farm were covered by Pat O’Gorman, former Teagasc adviser.
The Dempsey farm comprises of a suckler herd, with all progeny finished to beef plus purchased cattle, combined with a mid-season sheep flock of ewes and spring barley. The benefits and challenges of a mix of enterprises in terms of cash flow, grass utilisation and labour were discussed.
In the afternoon, participants checked out information hubs including AIB, Department of Agriculture, Teagasc Farm Safety, Grasstec, Herdwatch, and Land Mobility.
This was followed by a talk on goal setting and planning with Gerry Duffy, who ran 32 marathons in 32 days.
The day concluded with a panel discussion chaired by Mike Magan,. The panel was made up of Kevin Heavin, local dairy farmer and former FBD Young Farmer of the Year; Claire O’Keeffe, Succession Ireland; and Mr Duffy.
