In this week’s episode, deputy news editor Amy Forde talks to editor and CEO Justin McCarthy on the political issues within the sector at the moment, including the financial implications of Brexit, the importance of CAP reform and the opportunities for students to work full- or part-time within the sector.

State of Play in Irish Agriculture - Episode 1.

Justin also highlights several employment opportunities for people who don’t come from a farming background and notes how 10% of the national workforce are employed within the agri sector.

Next up, Amy talks to deputy editor Jack Kennedy, who provides viewers with an overview of Ireland’s pig and poultry sectors.

Jack discusses the impact of African Swine Fever which has wiped out over half of the sow population in China and the big challenge is keeping it out of Ireland.

Finally, Amy talks with market intelligence and EU specialist Phelim O’Neill on where things are with Brexit and CAP negotiations and what the potential impact will be for Irish agriculture.

Don’t miss part two of our State of Play in Irish Agriculture series next Thursday, where we will be talking with livestock specialist Darren Carty, beef and suckler editor Adam Woods, pedigree editor Shane Murphy and dairy editor Aidan Brennan.