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The IFA has awarded its prestigious Paddy Fitzgerald award to farmer Michael Davoren from Co Clare.
Davoren is known for his work with local Clare farmers and has championed the traditional farming practices of the Burren, getting a derogation to allow Burren Winterage farming practices to continue.
At the award ceremony in the Adare Manor on Sunday night, IFA president Joe Healy said the award represented the spirit of volunteerism: “Each of the nine nominees had the honour of being chosen by their county executive.
“The cornerstone of the IFA’s work is the willingness of farmers to give of their time in representing their fellow farmers. It is only fitting that this should be recognised and I would like to thank FBD for their support for this prestigious event.”
Paddy Fitzgerald's spirit lives on in communities
The Paddy Fitzgerald award was established by a group of farmers in Co Limerick in 1998 to recognise the volunteer efforts of farmers for their community.
European Commissioner for Agriculture Phil Hogan said that it was an honour to attend the awards, and paid tribute to their namesake: “Paddy Fitzgerald's spirit lives on in communities across Ireland, and indeed across the EU, and the nine nominees can be very proud of their immense contribution to rural life.”
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