Farming: Dairygold showcases ‘Farming for Water’ event
Pictured at Dairygold’s Farming for Water: To Protect Our Future event on the farm of Dairygold Milk Supplier Kevin Twomey are, Billy Cronin, Head of Member Services and Engagement, Dairygold, Orlaith Tynan, Head of Sustainability, Dairygold, Kevin and Margaret Twomey, Dairygold Milk Suppliers, and MEPs Seán Kelly and Billy Kelleher.
Dairygold hosted Ireland South MEPs Billy Kelleher, Sean Kelly and Michael McNamara at its recent “Farming for Water: To Protect Our Future” event on the farm of Dairygold Milk Supplier Kevin and Margaret Twomey in Ballyhooly, Co. Cork.
The event highlighted the work being done by Dairygold and its members as part of the River Blackwater Catchment Programme, to ensure the sustainability of the dairy industry in the region, which is of vital economic importance to both the local region and the national economy.
The event heard from speakers from LAWPRO, Teagasc and Dairygold, who all highlighted the work being done to improve water quality on farms across the Dairygold catchment area and provide evidence to further support the dairy industry’s calls for a retention of the EU Nitrates Derogation in Ireland.
The removal by the EU of its Nitrates Derogation would have a significant negative economic impact on milk processors and farmers, challenging the future viability of their businesses and severely negatively impacting the rural economy.
Michael Harte, Dairygold Chief Executive, said, “The Farming for Water event is crucial for raising awareness of the important measures our farmers are taking to improve water quality.
“It is vital that farmers are given the opportunity to demonstrate that these measures are successful.
“We’re delighted to be able to demonstrate the progress being made by Dairygold Milk Suppliers as part of our recently launched River Blackwater Catchment Programme here today.”
The River Blackwater runs through the land of dairy farmer Kevin Twomey. He said implementing effective nutrient management and protective measures remains key to maintaining and improving the water quality status in the river.
“Everyone has a role to play,” he said.
Seán Kelly, MEP for Ireland South, said, “This event demonstrates the leadership shown by Irish farmers in protecting water quality, trusting the science and building a more sustainable future. We now need continued policy support to let that progress continue.”
