Irish food production future a focus at ASA’s 2026 conference
L-R: Mr. Dale Crammond (ASA President), Mr. Phillip Gleeson (Executive Head Chef, Killashee) & Dr. Michael Berkery (FBD Trust Chairman). The future of Ireland's food production system will be the central focus of this year’s conference under the theme, "Roots of Resilience: Safeguarding Our Food Production Model for the Next Generation. Picture: Finbarr O'Rourke
The future of Ireland’s food production system will be the central focus of this year's Agricultural Science Association (ASA) Annual Conference.
The annual conference will be held in the Killashee Hotel in Naas on September 3.
Under the theme, "Roots of Resilience: Safeguarding Our Food Production Model for the Next Generation," the conference will bring together leading experts from across the agri-food sector to celebrate Ireland's strengths in food production while exploring the future of Irish agriculture.
Launching this year's conference, ASA President Dale Crammond said the event comes at a pivotal time for Ireland's agri-food sector: "Ireland has earned a strong international reputation for producing safe, high-quality food to the highest standards… Maintaining that position means continuing to build on our strengths while addressing the challenges facing our sector.
By sharing knowledge and experience, we can help shape a resilient future for the Irish agri-food sector for generations to come."
Sponsored by FBD Insurance, this year's conference will feature expert-led discussions on protecting Ireland's competitive strengths in food production, the future of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), generational renewal, and the environmental challenges surrounding water quality and sustainability.
The conference will bring together policymakers, researchers, industry leaders and agricultural professionals from across the sector to exchange ideas and share practical solutions.
It has been confirmed that MEP Barry Coen will speak at the event, with other speakers to be announced in the coming weeks, along with the conference programme and registration details.
The annual ASA conference will be followed by the black-tie banquet, which remains a highlight for those working in the agri-food sector.
Chairman of FBD Trust, Michael Berkery, said: "FBD is proud to continue our sponsorship of the ASA Annual Conference, which provides an important forum for discussion on the future of Irish agriculture.
Building a resilient, sustainable and competitive food production system is vital for the next generation, and we look forward to supporting the conversations that will continue to drive the sector forward”
