The FBD Trust celebrated its 50th birthday last week at a function in Castleknock and on the night a book was also launched chronicling the trust’s achievements over the last 50 years.

The book was authored by Michael Miley who researched and recorded the development and progress of the trust and its impact on Irish agriculture.

In 1975 the FBD Trust was established to support and advance the interests of Irish farm families and their communities in Ireland. The FBD Trust supports research and educational scholarships for training and development. It also supports groups and organisations that advocate effectively for Irish farmers and their communities.

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The trust has committed grants and sponsorships totalling €70m since its establishment in 1975. Many organisations including ICBF, Teagasc, UCD, Nuffield Ireland, AHI and many more have benefited from sponsorship from the FBD Trust for different farmer-focused initiatives and competitions down through the years.

A few individuals were highlighted for praise on the night including its first chairman, Paddy O'Keeffe, first chief executive Brian Collivet and the current chairman Michael Berkery, along with others who have shaped the trust into what it is today.

Lots of stories from organisations which have benefited from the trust’s support were regaled by the beneficiaries on the night. Speaking on the night FBD Trust chairman Michael Berkery said: “We are truly grateful for the wonderful inheritance we have received from those early visionaries and pioneers. The trust’s promotional and philanthropic activity makes FBD unique as the only insurance company in the Irish market continuously re-investing in initiatives to benefit its customers.”