Key facts
- A €20 million Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS) for 2026-2027 has been launched.
- The ORIS scheme has invested over €150 million in more than 2,000 projects historically.
- The National Dairy Council and Sport Ireland Institute have launched a three-year partnership.
- 84% of Irish adults recognize the value of a healthy breakfast.
- 1,100 work permits were issued to the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector in the first five months of 2026.
- This represents a 10% increase in work permits compared to the previous year.
- Farm families are advised to start succession planning in summer 2026 for an autumn transfer.
- A fully funded horse-assisted mental wellbeing coaching program for farmers returns for 2026.
- Agriland is launching a series called 'Groundbreakers' about women in Irish agriculture.
- 2026 is designated as the International Year of the Woman Farmer by the UN.
- FBD Insurance has launched the FBD Pig Farming Awards 2026 and a €10,000 Innovation Bursary.
- Entries for the Pig Farming Awards open on June 10, 2026.
Ireland's agricultural sector is experiencing a wave of new initiatives and support mechanisms aimed at development, wellbeing, and recognition. Minister Dara Calleary has launched the 2026-2027 Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme (ORIS), allocating €20 million for the enhancement and upkeep of outdoor recreational facilities in rural areas. This scheme, now in its tenth year, has a history of significant investment, having previously allocated over €150 million to more than 2,000 projects.
In a unique collaboration, the National Dairy Council (NDC) and Sport Ireland Institute have initiated a three-year partnership focused on providing dairy-based breakfasts to elite athletes. NDC CEO Emma Walls drew parallels between dairy farming and elite sports, emphasizing their shared pursuit of 'marginal gains' through diligent effort and consistency. This initiative is supported by research indicating that 84% of Irish adults acknowledge the importance of a healthy breakfast, although convenience often dictates consumer choices.
The agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector has seen a notable increase in its workforce, with 1,100 work permits issued in the first five months of 2026. This represents a 10% rise compared to the same period in the previous year, with permits predominantly for roles in meat processing, horticulture, and dairy farms.
Farm families are being advised by Teagasc farm adviser Eimear Hughes to commence succession planning discussions during the summer of 2026, with the aim of facilitating an autumn transfer of operations. Hughes stresses that delaying these crucial conversations can precipitate legal, financial, and familial discord, underscoring the necessity of early engagement and transparent communication.
Further support for farmer wellbeing includes the return of a fully funded mental wellbeing coaching program utilizing horses for 2026. This initiative offers participants, whether in one-to-one or group settings, the opportunity to manage stress, cultivate resilience, and enhance their overall wellbeing at no personal expense.
Agriland is set to launch a new series titled 'Groundbreakers,' dedicated to spotlighting the significant contributions of women within Irish agriculture. This series, backed by FBD Insurance, will encompass a variety of formats including interviews, videos, podcasts, and articles, aiming to showcase the diverse experiences and achievements of women in the sector. The launch coincides with the UN's designation of 2026 as the International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Recognition for achievements in pig production is being bolstered by FBD Insurance's launch of the FBD Pig Farming Awards 2026 and a €10,000 Innovation Bursary. These awards aim to celebrate excellence in areas such as pig production, animal welfare, environmental sustainability, and industry leadership. Applications will open on June 10, 2026, with winners to be announced on October 14, 2026.
Finally, Bord Bia Quality Assurance, an integral part of the Origin Green program, is providing guidance for businesses preparing for upcoming audits. This support is vital for upholding Ireland's international reputation for producing high-quality, sustainable meat and dairy products.