Dairy apprenticeship aims to close skills gap

Only 5% of Irish farmers are under the age of 35. One in every three is over the age of 65. The 2024 National Farm Survey found that the average age of an Irish dairy farmer was 54

Only 5% of Irish farmers are under the age of 35. File picture.

The dairy industry needs to attract well-trained and skilful young people, said Emma-Louise Coffey, the programme co-ordinator for the farm manager apprenticeship programme, in a recent Dairy Edge podcast.

“There’s a big gap, and a need for more people,” she said.