Young Kilmessan farmer takes bronze
Peter Farrell, a young dairy farmer from Kilmessan has taken third place at Macra na Feirme’s FBD Young Farmer of the Year. Following a challenging interview process, Peter, from Ringlestown, who is 27 years old, was awarded third place by Edmond Harty, the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2012, and CEO and Technical Director of Dairymaster.
Peter has won a specially commissioned art piece by Irish artist, John Duffy, and a bursary worth €750. Substantial prizes were also awarded to first place winner John Buckley from Bantry, Co Cork and second place winner, Esther Walsh from Lismore in County Waterford. Colm Stenson from Carrick on Shannon, Co Leitrim received the Special Prize for Community Involvement from Pat Smith, IFA Chief Executive, while Thomas Hassett from Mooncoin, Co Kilkenny, was presented the Award for Innovation in Farming by Edmond Connolly, Chief Executive of Macra na Feirme.
Peter Farrell supplies milk to Glanbia and is in a partnership with his father. A plan was made in 2011 to increase cow numbers - in order to achieve this, a major cull of low EBI/infertile cows took place during 2011. Land availability around the parlour is the biggest limiting factor from promoting farm expansion. Peter is a member of the Bo and Boinne discussion group and chaired this group in 2011. He is involved with Teagasc and he hosted three DEP approved farm walks over the last three years.
Macra na Feirme national president, Kieran O’Dowd, praised the young farmers who had made it through to the national final, saying: 'Macra’s 'FBD Young Farmer of the Year Awards' showcases excellence among young, highly progressive farmers and recognises their commitment to both the agricultural industry and their local communities. To support young farmers the Government needs to facilitate and create the necessary supports in the current CAP and national budget process to encourage energetic and well trained young people to commence farming and support them in establishing sustainable and profitable farm businesses. The supports and opportunities are now available under CAP for young farmers. However, success or failure of this potential golden era for young farmers will come down to choices by the Department of Agriculture on the provision of schemes and incentives to encourage the next generation of farmer to deliver growth and expansion in the agricultural sector and contribute to economic development.”
Twenty four contestants from all over Ireland took part in the 15th FBD Young Farmer of the Year competition. The competition, run by Macra na Feirme in conjunction with the IFA, aims to recognise excellence in the agricultural industry and promote farming as a career with a bright future.