Second group of family farm suppliers celebrates graduation from the Tirlán & Baileys Sustainable Farming Academy
Eighteen Tirlán farmers are proudly graduating as the second group of family farm suppliers from the Tirlán and Baileys Sustainable Farming Academy. This year’s graduates complete their Diploma in Environment, Sustainability, and Climate from University College Cork (UCC), following a year-long programme that equips them with essential skills and knowledge to further enhance sustainable farming practices.
Building on the success of the inaugural group, this second cohort has benefited from a programme that helps farm families implement positive environmental actions while addressing the increasing challenges around sustainability. The Academy is closely aligned with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring a globally relevant approach to sustainability.
Delivered by UCC, the diploma is accredited and fully funded, enabling farmers to balance their studies with full-time farm responsibilities. The third cohort of students began their studies in September 2024, continuing the Academy’s goal of supporting farmers in their sustainability journey.
The program covers a range of important topics, including Earth Science, Climate Change and Sustainable Development, Ecology, Applied Geographical Information Systems, Environmental Protection, and Practical Environmental Management.
Darren Barcoe, Head of Global Sales at Tirlán, congratulated this year’s graduates:
"Sustainability is at the core of what we do, both on our farms and within our Co-op. These graduates have shown outstanding commitment to learning and applying sustainability principles. As part of Tirlán’s Living Proof strategy, we are proud to continue empowering our farm family suppliers to meet the sustainability challenges of today and tomorrow.”
He added, “Our partnership with Baileys remains central to delivering a world-class product, and it’s exciting to see the growing impact of the Sustainable Farming Academy as more farmers adopt sustainable practices.”
Robert Murphy, Global Supply Director for Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur, said:
"We are incredibly proud to be part of this initiative. At Baileys, sustainability is deeply rooted in how we operate, and supporting farmers through this programme is a key part of that. The dedication of these graduates highlights the progress being made to create a more sustainable future in farming."
Belinda Gascoigne, ACE Centre Manager and Programme Director for UCC, noted:
"UCC is proud to partner with Tirlán and Baileys on this impactful programme. As these 18 graduates can attest, sustainability in agriculture is vital for the future. By providing them with the necessary knowledge and tools, we’re helping to shape a future where farming continues to thrive, sustainably.”
One of the 23/24 graduates, Anne Jennings, shared her experience:
"The diploma programme has really opened my eyes to what’s possible when it comes to sustainable farming. I’ve learned how to implement real changes on my farm, and I’m excited to continue this journey into the future.”
With this second graduating class, the Tirlán and Baileys Sustainable Farming Academy continues to build a solid foundation for future generations of farm suppliers, further reinforcing Ireland's leadership in sustainable agricultural practices.