Over the course of our speaker series, I've been introducing you to the seven people joining us for Future of Farming: Clarity & Direction on Wednesday, 4 November.
So far, we've explored research, technology, animal health and the people behind our farms.
Today, we're turning our attention to a question that goes right to the heart of the future of Irish agriculture.
Can farmers actually make a decent living from farming?
Meet Niall Counihan, National Treasurer and Kerry Chairman of the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers' Association (ICSA).
Through his involvement with ICSA, Niall advocates for farmers and speaks out on the issues affecting the agricultural industry.
From international trade agreements such as Mercosur to the challenges facing farmers here at home, Niall has been involved in the conversations about how decisions made beyond the farm gate affect the people working inside it.
And I think that's an important perspective to have at our event.
Because what's the point of producing more food if farmers can't make a decent living producing it?
We hear plenty about productivity, sustainability, environmental requirements and the need for agriculture to adapt.
And there's no doubt that farming will have to continue changing.
But someone has to ask the difficult questions.
Who pays for that change?
Can farmers afford to make the investments being asked of them?
Are the returns sufficient to keep family farms viable?
And what kind of industry are we leaving behind for the next generation?
These aren't questions with simple answers.
They're questions that need farmers, industry representatives, researchers and policymakers around the same table.
Niall brings the perspective of farmer representation and the economic realities facing Irish agriculture.
And I'm delighted he'll be joining us.
On Wednesday, 4 November, Niall will join six other speakers for Future of Farming: Clarity & Direction.
This is an audience-led event, and we want your questions, experiences and ideas to be part of the discussion.
Wednesday, 4 November | 5:45–7:00 pm | Online | Free
Because the future of Irish farming shouldn't be discussed without the farmers whose futures are at stake.