Tirlán re-opens applications for Sustainable Farming Academy at UCC
The 20 Tirlán farmers celebrate graduating as the third group of family farm suppliers from the Tirlán and Baileys Sustainable Farming Academy in 2025. Picture: John Allen
The Sustainable Farming Academy is now open to Tirlán co-op members to achieve a fully funded Certificate in Sustainable Agricultural Practices.
The academy, a collaboration between Tirlán Co-op and Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur, is celebrating its fifth year open for co-op members.
The course is delivered by University College Cork (UCC) and aims to support farm families in taking positive environmental and management actions. The academy provides up-to-date knowledge to enhance on-farm productivity and sustainability.
Chief ingredients officer with Tirlán, Aoife Murphy, said: “Since we established the Sustainable Farming Academy partnership with Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur, 60 Tirlán Co-op farm family suppliers have graduated from UCC, with a further 20 completing their education this year.
In addition, 15 education bursaries have been awarded to Tirlán Co-op family members who have commenced third-level studies. Three successful Scholars Events have also been hosted, ensuring we continue to empower our Co-op members with the knowledge needed to improve both on-farm economic and environmental performance.”
Global sustainability marketing manager with Baileys, Aisling Gorman, added: “The academy equips future generations with the knowledge and skills to progress sustainable farming even further, and we are delighted to partner with Tirlán and its Co-op members on this successful initiative.”
Academy graduate and Tirlán Co-op member Brigid Carroll, from Ballycanew, Co Wexford, described her participation in the Sustainable Farming Academy as “worthwhile and empowering”.
Ms Carroll, said: “The course is mostly online, and I was able to fit it in well alongside family life and the farm. Completing the course has given me the knowledge to make changes on our farm in areas such as fertiliser use, grassland management, energy use and animal care.
"These improvements will enhance both the economic and environmental performance of our family farm. Every Tirlán Co-op member should definitely consider taking part.”
Tirlán Co-op members interested in completing the fully funded certificate are asked to submit their expression of interest by June 30, 2026. For more information, visit the UCC website.
