Potato growers to examine irrigation and future markets
Ireland’s national sector conference will bring farmers, advisers and industry representatives together to discuss resilience after a challenging season. The gathering in Co. Meath will also consider changing consumer habits, diversification and water extraction rules.
Growers and industry specialists will examine how Ireland’s potato sector can adapt to changing consumer demands and a challenging climate at the National Potato Conference on Tuesday, 17 November.
Organised by Teagasc, the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) and Bord Bia, the event begins at 9am at the City North Hotel, Gormanston, Co. Meath, K32 W562. Its theme is ‘Building a Resilient Potato Sector’.
Teagasc potato specialist Shay Phelan said farmers and growers who have reinvented their businesses to take advantage of emerging trends will address the conference.
The programme includes market analysis from Kantar and a presentation from Bord Bia’s Michal Slaawski on identifying consumers. Berta Redondo of Europatat will discuss the impact of the 2026 season and future challenges, while GIY’s Mick Kelly will explore opportunities to grow food at home. Con Trass, of The Apple Farm and the IFA, will address diversification at grower level.
Following a challenging year of drought, the afternoon session will focus on irrigation. Teagasc vegetable and potato adviser Andy Whelton will discuss its impact, while Gavin Prentice of SRUC will examine irrigation systems for the future. The EPA’s Jim Moriarty will outline water extraction licensing requirements.
Teagasc’s Denis Griffin will also examine emerging potato varieties, and Tom Murray of O’Shea Farms will discuss opportunities to develop alternative markets.
The full agenda and registration details are available from Teagasc.