It was with great sadness that we learned of the passing of Pat O’Reilly on Saturday morning after a short illness. Pat had been deeply involved in our BETTER farm programme since its inception and played a key role in its success and development.

In his passing, Irish farming lost a great ambassador and his neighbours and friends lost a man passionate about helping his local community. In the Irish Farmers Journal, we lost a close friend.

Of course, the greatest loss is to his wife Mary, his two sons Thomás and Aiden, and his wider family.

We extend our deepest sympathies.