FRS Co-Op at Ploughing 2025
The National Ploughing Championships is always a highlight of the farming calendar and this year, FRS Co-Op is proud to bring together some of Ireland’s most influential voices for a series of thought-provoking panel discussions in our marquee.
Across three days, visitors will hear from farming experts, policy makers, and industry leaders on the issues that matter most to rural Ireland.
Tuesday Afternoon: A CAP Reform Conversation with Ireland’s MEPs
The standout event of our programme takes place on Tuesday afternoon at 2.00pm, when Barry Cowen MEP and Maria Walsh MEP will join Neil Keane, Head of Agri FRS, to discuss:
“What does Ireland need in the next CAP reform?”
This promises to be a lively and timely debate on the future of the Common Agricultural Policy, exploring how reforms can better support Irish farmers, rural communities, and sustainability. With CAP decisions shaping the future of Irish agriculture, this is a must-attend session for anyone interested in policy, farming, and the direction of European support for rural Ireland.
Other Panel Discussions Across the Ploughing
Alongside Tuesday’s CAP reform feature, our tent will also host a wide range of important conversations, including:
Tuesday Morning – Deer Management (11.30am)
Suzanne Campbell (Journalist), Seppi Hona (DMSG & DAFM), and Michael Keegan (FRS Deer Management Programme Manager) will explore why a national deer management programme is required, addressing both farming and biodiversity impacts.Wednesday Morning – First Generation Farmers (11.30am)
Ann Marie Butler (Teagasc), Eoghan Byrne (FRS Co-Op), and Conor Hogan (Teagasc) will tackle the question: Who are the future farmers? A vital conversation on succession and the next generation of Irish agriculture.Wednesday Afternoon – Women in Agriculture (2.00pm)
Monica Gorman (UCD) will join Helena Silke (FRS Co-Op), Mary Kinston & Laura Hannon (Dairy Women Ireland) to explore challenges and opportunities for women in the farming sector.Thursday Morning – How Employment Sustains Rural Communities (11.30am)
Lynne McCormack (GM, FRS Recruitment), Colin Donnery (CEO, FRS Co-Op), and William Minchin (CEO Agricultural Trust).Thursday Afternoon – Farm Family CPD (1.00pm)
JulieAnn McCann (FRS Co-Op), Ben Fearn (FRS Training), and Philip Stewart (Farmer Phil) will discus the importance of keeping our children safe on the farm.
Find out more about FRS Co-Op at this year’s National Ploughing Championships HERE.
Find us at the Ploughing
Find us at STAND 119 ROW 5
