We need to put science behind animal welfare, according to Alo Mohan, quoting his key lessons from a Nuffield study trip to the Netherlands. "We must transfer our knowledge of farming systems to consumers," he said. "And we need to talk to people outside of Irish agriculture

The industry needs to talk with one voice and break down the generation gaps."

"Primary producers need to talk to the consumer to explain modern farming," he said, citing the example of the Taste of Cavan event.

"The difference between surviving and thriving all comes down to how you educate and train yourself throughout your life," he said.

He met Denis O'Brien who said that Ireland needed to invest heavily in technology and farmers need to stay to the forefront in communicating our strengths.

Alo Mohan is a poultry and beef farmer producing over 1m birds per year.

He was speaking at the 2014 Nuffield Ireland conference at Castleknock hotel.

The Irish poultry industry is worth over €1 billion at retail level in Ireland and is one of the biggest users of Irish grain, he said.

Bill O'Keeffe, chairman of Nuffield Ireland said that there are now 71 Nuffield Scholars in Ireland, with the group linked in to the global Nuffield organisation. The group aims to develops the leadership skills of individuals involved in farming and agribusiness.

"Can we keep attracting the best and brightest into Irish agriculture?" he asked, stressing the need to ensure a career path and progression opportunities.