A huge crowd turned out to a Bank of Ireland agri seminar in Tralee last Thursday to hear former Kerry Group chief Denis Brosnan and Kerry football manager Éamonn Fitzmaurice. The Kerry football manager explained one of the key issues for success in any walk of life is to have strong mental ability. He said it is so important for players and for all people, including farmers especially, when the pressure comes on to deal with problems or changes.

Speaking of mental toughness, former Kerry chief executive Denis Brosnan made a rare appearance to speak about the dairy industry. While he explained there are challenging conditions ahead, the global demand for dairy fundamentals remain strong based on population growth, economic growth in emerging markets, urbanisation and increased focus on nutrition. He said Irish farmers must have the best genetics and the best husbandry.

“Measure yourself against global farmers, not your neighbours,” he said.

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A farmer in attendance asked Brosnan if he would invest in cows or Kerry shares if he had money. Before he had time to answer, the same farmer reminded Denis that 20 years ago he told him the answer was Kerry shares.

“If I was a young farmer building a better business, I’d probably invest in dairy cows now because I believe the future is bright for dairy globally,” said Brosnan.