Agriland Media Group and National Dairy Council Launch "Raising the Dairy Voice" Series

In celebration of the NDC's 60th anniversary, Agriland interviewed two of its farmer ambassadors, James Flaherty fr om Castleisland, Co. Kerry, and Paddy O’Kelly from Dromcollogher, Co. Limerick, who shared their experiences and insights.

James Flaherty’s family has been farming since 1850, initially milking pedigree British Friesians until 2005. After a brief hiatus and shift to beef farming, they returned to dairy in 2018 with modern robotic milking technology. Currently, James manages 80 cows with significant support from his parents.

Paddy O’Kelly, whose family has been in dairy farming for five generations, runs a 120-cow pedigree Holstein herd. His 89-year-old father remains actively involved, showcasing the deeply rooted family tradition.

Both farmers have witnessed numerous changes in the dairy industry, from the introduction of electricity in the 1950s to modern advancements like milking robots and automated feeding systems. They emphasized the labor-saving benefits and increased efficiency brought by these technologies.

The abolition of milk quotas in 2015 was a significant turning point. Paddy expanded his herd following the removal of quotas, although it required substantial investment. James, having moved to beef farming prior to the abolition, was drawn back to dairy farming due to the stability it offered.

Despite the progress, challenges remain. James highlighted the need for public support and understanding of farming practices, while Paddy stressed the importance of milk prices and the impact of regulatory changes.

Both ambassadors praised the NDC for its efforts to promote the dairy industry and connect with urban audiences. They believe that such initiatives are crucial for raising awareness about the vital role of farmers.

Stay tuned for more stories and insights from the "Raising the Dairy Voice" Series, wh ere the experiences of Irish dairy farmers will be shared with the broader public.