The Zurich Farm Insurance Farming Independent Farmer of the Year Awards

THE 3rd annual Zurich Farm Insurance Farming Independent - Farmer of the Year Awards were launched today.

The Awards recognise excellence in the Irish farming industry and shine a light on one of the most successful and important sectors within the Irish economy.

There are eight categories available for entry, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award and a Grand Prix Award for the overall Farmer of the Year for 2016. Award winners will also share a prize fund of € 20,000.

Full details of categories and how to enter are available at www.farmeroftheyear.ie.

The awards are free to enter and farmers can nominate themselves or be nominated by a third party

The Awards will take place in The Ballsbridge Hotel in Dublin on Friday May 20th 2016.

Commenting on the launch of the awards, Michael Doyle, Head of Sales & Agri Business for Zurich Insurance comment- ed, “As one of the country’s leading providers of farm in- surance, we are proud to continue as title sponsor of these prestigious awards, which are now an annual highlight in the farming calendar. The Farmer of the Year Awards highlight the dedication and innovation which has been witnessed in the farming community over the past few years, and celebrate the high achievers in the industry. We are delighted to be involved in recognising these successes and look forward to seeing this year’s entries.”

Entries will be accepted online or by post and the closing date for entries is Friday April 8th 2016.

The title sponsor for the awards for the 3rd year is Zurich Insurance plc, one of the country’s leading farm insurers.

Category sponsors for the awards are the Health & Safety Authority, The ICMSA, The ICSA, The Irish Independent, Landrover and Teagasc.