Cultivating success

Applications are now open for the 2024/2025 Young Farmer programme.

The successful initiative has been running since 2017 and provides vital management skills, networking opportunities, and encouragement to new and young famers across the country.

This year up to 35 places will be available on the part time programme which is delivered by the Irish Co-Operative Organisation (ICOS) and is completely free of charge.

An information roadshow for those who may be interested in finding out more will be kicking off 14 August in Cork, with further events taking place in Athlone, Nenagh, Kilkenny and Cavan/Sligo.

Mr Billy Goodburn, Head of Learning and Development with ICOS Skillnet said: “We are striving to provide new and young famers with the practical, necessary supports they need to survive and thrive.

“Our rural communities require farmers with business and management skills, confidence and vitally, networks that will sustain them into the future,” Mr Goodburn added.

The course, which runs from October to June, is a mix of in-person and online training and takes place one day per month, after which the participants receive a certificate of completion.

It is open to farmers under the age of 40, with the number of female participants now approaching 50%.

Participants who complete the full programme will be entered into a draw to participate in an international study-visit next year.

Last year’s successful winners will be visiting Poland, Spain and Portugal this autumn.

Mr Goodburn continued: “To echo the recent remarks by Minister McConalogue at the Agricultural & Fisheries Council last week, maintaining viable rural areas through generational renewal is key – attracting, then supporting, young people and new entrants to farming is strategically important for the agri-food sector, ensuring our farming communities remain resilient and strong.”

The closing date for applications is 27 September.

Expressions of interest can be made at forms.gle.