New research to examine role of technology and labour in dairying

The interaction of employment dynamics and the adoption of technology on dairy farm productivity and generational renewal will be investigated in a new research project.

The PhD research will examine the experiences and challenges faced by employees, how workforce management practices are influencing farm performance and the ways in which new technologies can help make the sector a more attractive place to work.

The project will also evaluate the broader economic contribution of employed labour to dairy farms.

The PhD will be overseen by the VistaMilk Research Ireland Centre based in Teagasc Moorepark and funded by FRS Co-op.

The project will commence over the coming weeks, with a final thesis expected to be published by 2029.

Collaboration

“This collaboration with FRS Co-op highlights the vital role of people in the future of Irish dairy farming – a critical but often overlooked dimension,” said Professor Donagh Berry of VistaMilk Research Ireland Centre.

“By exploring how workforce practices and technology interact, this PhD will deliver evidence-based insights to help farms improve productivity, job satisfaction and long-term sustainability,” he added.

This theme was echoed by Teagasc director Professor Frank O’Mara.

“Attracting, developing and retaining skilled people is vital to strengthen competitiveness, enhance farming’s attractiveness as a career and secure the long-term environmental sustainability of the sector,” he said.

Pointing out that labour on farms was often “undervalued and generally framed as a cost to be minimised”, Neil Keane of FRS said the co-op was delighted to partner with VistaMilk and Teagasc on the research.