Agriculture Committee explores future of farming, conservation techniques

Tuesday's witnesses represent Macra na Feirme, the voluntary organisation for rural youth, and BASE Ireland, a partnership of farmers, agronomists and other agriculture professionals committed to promoting “conservation agriculture” -- farming methods that protect and enrich the soil.

Scheduled speakers from the two organisations are:

• Macra na Feirme President James Healy and Agricultural Affairs Manager Derrie Dillon, and
• BASE Ireland Chairman Louis McAuley and committee members Conor O’Flaherty and Jonny Greene.

Agriculture Committee Chairman Pat Deering TD says it’s critical for the farmers of tomorrow to be able to harness advanced methods to boost productivity, product diversity and the sustainable conservation of rich soil.

“Tuesday’s witnesses are devoted to building a future for Irish agriculture that will make our next generation the most technically sophisticated and environmentally astute farmers Ireland has ever produced,” Deputy Deering said. “Committee members will have many questions and much to learn from the engagement.”

Committee proceedings can be viewed live here.

Committee proceedings also can be viewed live on Android and Apple devices using the Houses of the Oireachtas app.