UCC study says tillage and sheep are best placed for the future

The findings might come as a surprise to those used to comparing sectors on farm profitability.

Research in Norway indicated that sheep farmers had high levels of satisfaction with their job, suggesting they are more driven by farm performance and by lifestyle than by financial rewards.

Of the farm sectors in Ireland, those in tillage are best placed for the future, according to research that took into account not just incomes, but also quality of life, well-being, stress, farm business continuity, generational renewal, isolation, social interaction, and access to services.

This kind of research has been driven by recognition that environmental or economic sustainability is difficult to achieve, without attending to the social dimensions of everyday lives.