Future of farming to dominate series of regional Fine Gael conferences on agriculture

Meeting to take place in Tuam on February 23^rd

The future of the farming industry is set to dominate discussion at a one day conference hosted by Fine Gael in Galway next week.

The Fine Gael National Agriculture, Food and Rural Development (NAFRD) forum will hold a regional conference on Thursday 23^rd February at 8pm in the Ard Rí Hotel in Tuam.

Fundamentally, this conference is a unique opportunity for farmers to lead the discussion and engage with Fine Gael on innovative solutions, as well as the challenges they face.

The event will feature politicians and notable speakers in the areas of rural development, agriculture, food production, climate and rural employment including Minister Heather Humphreys, Minister Martin Heydon, Maria Walsh MEP, Siobhan Lawless, owner of The Foods of Athenry, and Stephen Hannon, Aurivo Livestock Mart Manager.

Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys said, “While in Government, Fine Gael has been to the forefront of delivering unprecedented investment in our rural towns and villages.

“As a party, we are deeply committed to building strong and vibrant rural communities, as well as ensuring that we do everything we can to support farm families across the country.

“There has never been a more important time to be discussing issues such as the future and sustainability of our farming sector.

“This conference will bring a range of different voices to the table as we discuss how we can work together to continue to deliver for rural Ireland.”

Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Martin Heydon said, “Agriculture is at the heart of rural communities across western counties. Driven primally by suckler and sheep farms, it is critical to supporting employment and preserving a unique landscape.

“Fine Gael is committed to delivering for farmers and rural Ireland. This conference is an important opportunity to hear from them and local businesses on improving farm incomes and developing new Income streams while also addressing environmental priorities and social issues like generation renewal.”

Panelist and Aurivo Livestock Mart Manager Stephen Hannon added, “I look forward to giving my views on the importance of the livestock marts in rural Ireland and the contribution the marts make to local towns and the local economy and also, the employment they give to part time farmers.”

Siobhan Lawless, owner of The Foods of Athenry will share their story, one of an evolving business, “After almost 20 years in business, in 2023 – we operate out of appx 30,000 square feet of bakery and warehouse space. We are still on the family farm, employing 30 people and specialise in the development and manufacturing of a range of free-from bakery products, sold both domestically and internationally. I’m eager to share my story and engage with farmers at the conference.”