Mayo IFA join campaign showcasing people behind our food
MAYO IFA have joined the national launch of a new Agri Aware and IFA campaign, Sustaining Ireland, showcasing the people behind our food.
Jarlath Walsh, county chairman, erected a number of farmer billboards in Mayo on the farms of Denis Fahey in Ballindine and Shelly O'Grady in Islandeaddy.
The aim of the campaign is to raise awareness about the importance of Irish agriculture; the variety of sectors producing food in this country; and the critical role it plays in the economy and society.
The campaign is a showcase of our predominantly grass-based, family-farm sectors. It aims to increase the general public's connection with farmers. Their stories of commitment and pride in their work are often overlooked in the ongoing debate about the sector's future.
Agri Aware chairman Alan Jagoe said: “Agri Aware was established 25 years ago to create a national awareness of the value of modern agriculture and farming. In the intervening time, while agriculture has continued to play a critical role in Ireland's economic and social development, the connection between farmers and the public has lessened. We want to strengthen that connection.”
Commented Jarlath Walsh: “Throughout 2020, during a global pandemic, Irish farmers continued to produce top-quality, nutritious food. This, in turn, supported Ireland's hard-hit economy.
“Agriculture is Ireland's largest indigenous sector and has, at various points in recent history, literally 'sustained' Ireland and its people through some of its most challenging periods. However, a narrative is taking shape that might lead people to think that we don't need the food produced here or the families who work so hard to produce it.
“We want our vibrant family-farm model to stay. This campaign will bring these families to the forefront and tell their stories.”
On-farm signs have been launched in every county. A digital campaign will also run throughout the summer months and a billboard campaign will appear as restrictions continue to ease and people begin to more freely around the country.
The campaign will showcase farmers from around Ireland involved in various sectors such as livestock, dairy, tillage and fruit and vegetables.