Women and Agriculture Conference: Looking ahead from Carlow
Helena Jonsson, former president of the Federation of Swedish Farmers; Kari Redse Haskjold, former vice-president of the Norwegian Farmers Union and Joan Fitzpatrick, former chair of the IFA Kilkenny County Executive. The session focused on how Ireland can learn from other countries in helping women progress to the top rank of the country’s farming organisations.
Needing no introduction, David McWilliams, the only economist in Ireland to accurately forecast a strong UK Brexit vote, gave a captivating and informative talk. What the future may hold for the agrifood sector in the wake of Brexit was outlined, along with economic influences on future generations staying on the land or not. As always, David displayed a remarkable talent in taking national and international economics and bringing them to a personal level, showing how they impact everyday life on the farm.
Back by popular demand was psychologist, broadcaster and writer Maureen Gaffney, who wrapped up this year’s Women & Agriculture conference leaving the audience empowered to take on one of the contentious issues on the farm - succession planning. Maureen talked about how mixing business with family relations can be a recipe for disaster and equipped the audience with tools and advice to take on this sensitive subject.
On top of all that, there was:
· An action packed talk from Irish rugby stars Rob and Dave Kearney.
· An entertaining cookery demonstration by Neven Maguire.
· A powerful address by Mary Ann O’Brien, the lady behind Lily O’Brien’s Chocolate and co-founder of the Jack and Jill Foundation.
· A striking portrayal of succession planning by Sian Bushell, Succession Planner and Clare O’Keefe of Succession Ireland.
Mairead Lavery, editor of Irish Country Living said: “Planning for this conference starts months in advance as we try to secure top speakers for our audience. Our line up here today really makes this conference one to remember. The atmosphere is so encouraging and everybody will go home revived, inspired and ready to take on new challenges ahead.”
Ms Fiona Muldoon, CEO, FBD Insurance said: “FBD Insurance is delighted to continue our long-standing relationship with the Women & Agriculture conference. I am delighted to see this initiative go from strength-to-strength over the years. Through this platform, Ireland’s farming women are recognised for their immense contribution to our agricultural sector and to rural life generally. At FBD Insurance, we know that Ireland’s farming women are key decision makers on their farms and in their communities and I wish you all the very best for this coming year.”
Triona Gorman, Operations Director, Sherry FitzGerald Countrywide said: “Sherry FitzGerald is delighted to be co-sponsor for the second year running of an event as influential as the Women & Agriculture conference. With 95 offices, employing 650 people across the country, Sherry FitzGerald is a national brand, which relies on local community based expertise. This conference attracts people from all corners of the country and promotes creativity and innovation throughout regional Ireland. We are proud to support such an inspiring event.”