Pictures - Kilkenny locals graduate from Sustainable Farming Academy

ABOVE: Brenda Hogan (Kilkenny) and Jennifer Slattery (Cork) Scroll down to read on and click NEXT to see lots more photographs...

Eighteen Tirlán farmers are proudly graduating as the second group of family farm suppliers from the Tirlán and Baileys Sustainable Farming Academy.

The graduates completed their Diploma in Environment, Sustainability, and Climate from University College Cork (UCC), following a year-long programme to equip them with skills and knowledge to enhance sustainable farming.

Building on the success of the inaugural group, this second cohort has benefited from a programme that helps farm families implement positive environmental actions while addressing the increasing challenges around sustainability.

The Academy is closely aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring a globally relevant approach to sustainability.

Delivered by UCC, the diploma is accredited and fully funded, enabling farmers to balance their studies with full-time farm responsibilities.
The third cohort of students began their studies in September 2024.

The programme covers a range of important topics, including Earth Science, Climate Change and Sustainable Development, Ecology, Applied Geographical Information Systems, Environmental Protection, and Practical Environmental Management.

“Sustainability is at the core of what we do, both on our farms and within our Co-op,” said Darren Barcoe, Head of Global Sales at Tirlán.

“These graduates have shown outstanding commitment to learning and applying sustainability principles. As part of Tirlán’s Living Proof strategy, we are proud to continue empowering our farm family suppliers to meet the sustainability challenges of today and tomorrow.

“Our partnership with Baileys remains central to delivering a world-class product, and it’s exciting to see the growing impact of the Sustainable Farming Academy as more farmers adopt sustainable practices.”

Belinda Gascoigne, ACE Centre Manager and Programme Director for UCC, noted: “As these 18 graduates can attest, sustainability in agriculture is vital for the future. By providing them with the necessary knowledge and tools, we’re helping to shape a future where farming continues to thrive, sustainably.”

With this second graduating class, the Tirlán and Baileys Sustainable Farming Academy continues to build a solid foundation for future generations of farm suppliers, further reinforcing Ireland’s leadership in sustainable agricultural practices.