Director general of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Laura Burke will speak at this year’s Nuffield Ireland conference, which will take place on 14 November at the Horse and Jockey Hotel.
During the fireside chat, Burke is to share reflections on her leadership journey and the importance of progress through collaboration - insights that resonate deeply with the Nuffield ethos, the organisation said.
This event will bring together scholars, alumni, industry leaders, policymakers and stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue.
Nuffield Ireland chair Joe Leonard said his year’s conference theme, ‘Cultivating Opportunities from Obstacles’, “reflects the resilience, innovation and leadership that define the Nuffield scholar community”.
“It also speaks directly to the heart of what Nuffield is about - turning challenges into leadership opportunities. Our scholars have travelled the world to bring back insights that will help shape the future of Irish agriculture.
“Our annual conference is open to all who have an interest in the future of agriculture and food, not just Nuffield alumni and stakeholders. We’re proud to host this event and invite everyone with a stake in farming, food and rural development to join the conversation,” he added.
A central part of the conference will be the presentations from the five 2024 Nuffield Ireland scholars, each sharing findings from their international research on topics critical to the future of Irish agriculture and rural development.
The full list of scholars and their topics is listed below.
John Keane, dairy and beef farmer, Laois
Topic: eradicating bTB
John’s research explores the complex challenge of bovine tuberculosis eradication in Ireland.
He highlights the need for reform in wildlife control, investment in technologies such as whole genome sequencing and adoption of international best practices in biosecurity and cattle movement.
His work calls for a renewed national commitment to finally eliminate bTB after 70 years of effort.
Nick Cotter, CEO Cotter Agritech, Limerick
Topic: six new rules for worm control in sheep
Nick’s study addresses the growing threat of anthelmintic resistance in Irish sheep farming.
Drawing on global case studies, he proposes six practical and future-proof rules for parasite control, aiming to improve profitability, animal welfare and environmental outcomes.
His recommendations include breeding for tolerance, feeding for immunity and creating national standards for faecal egg count testing.
Niall Hurson, agricultural policy adviser, Kingdom of the Netherlands, Monaghan
Topic: who tells the story of farming best - and why does it matter?
Niall’s report investigates how agriculture’s public narrative is shaped and why farmers must reclaim their voice.
He explores the fragmentation of political representation, the fragility of public trust and the need for authentic, farmer-led communication.
His recommendations span education, policy reform and strategic global engagement to ensure Irish farming remains relevant and respected.
Molly Garvey, food facilitator and communications consultant, Wicklow
Topic: unlocking Ireland’s agri-food edge through strategic collaboration
Molly’s research examines the barriers to collaboration between agriculture and environmental sectors in Ireland.
She identifies cultural silos, generational gaps and policy fragmentation as key challenges.
Her report offers actionable routes to productive dialogue, including joint platforms, local pilot projects and cross-sectoral education, to help Ireland lead in sustainable land use and food production.
Michael Martin, beef and tillage farmer, Wexford
Topic: from field to fork: ensuring the sustainability and competitiveness of Irish beef in an era of globalisation
Michael’s study explores Ireland’s position in the global beef market.
He highlights strategic advantages, such as EU access and strong social licence, while addressing challenges like dairy-origin beef quality and consumer price sensitivity.
His recommendations include a beef finishing bonus, improved marketing and better integration of dairy and beef systems to secure Ireland’s role as a sustainable beef leader.
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