Ballyhoura Development recently hosted its second Informative Talk of 2026 as part of the Farm Forward – Connecting Generations for the Future EIP Programme, welcoming over 50 farmers from across the region.

The event, titled Empower Your Farm – Secure Your Future, took place at the Deebert House Hotel in Kilmallock.

The gathering provided a valuable, engaging and inviting atmosphere that provided practical insights and forward-thinking advice for those aiming to shape the future of their farms.

Attendees benefited from expert insights delivered by guest speakers Joseph Collins, Agricultural Advisor –  FDC Group, and Tim Ryan, Partner & Tax Specialist –  IFAC. Both speakers shared a wealth of knowledge and practical, real-world experience relevant to today’s evolving farming landscape.

The session focused on collaborative farming models, including partnerships and share farming, alongside practical tax planning considerations. These topics generated strong interest among attendees, highlighting the opportunities that collaborative approaches can offer in terms of sustainability, succession planning, and long-term farm viability.

A key message throughout the event was the importance of seeking professional advice - especially concerning financial, tax planning, and legal matters. Both speakers emphasised the value of early engagement with financial, tax and legal advisors to ensure informed and financially sound planning.

Farm succession also emerged as a central theme. Ballyhoura Development’s Succession & Generational Renewal Coach, Carrie O’Donoghue, highlighted the importance of starting conversations early within farm families: “Stepping back from the farm doesn’t mean stepping away from responsibility – it means stepping into a new role with intention. The families who navigate succession well are the ones who seek out the right resources, ask hard questions, and bring in professional advice early. You don’t have to figure it all out alone, in fact you shouldn’t. A strong transition is built on informed decisions, not assumptions.”

She also reminded attendees that Ballyhoura Development offers free, confidential Succession & Generational Renewal appointments for farmers, family members and new entrants at its offices across the region.

Speakers further underlined the benefits of early planning, noting that it allows families the time and space to explore options, avoid potential challenges, and put structured plans in place to support a smooth transition between generations.

Overall, the event was very positively received, with attendees describing it as both informative and thought-provoking. It provided not only expert guidance but also reassurance that, with the right planning and support, farmers can confidently secure the future of their enterprises.

How to Access the Service:

Farmers can arrange an appointment at any of Ballyhoura Development’s offices in Kilfinane, Kilmallock, Mitchelstown, Charleville, and Cappamore. Meetings can also take place at neutral venues or online via Zoom/Teams.

Contact:
Carrie O’Donoghue – Farm Succession & Generational Renewal Coach
M: 086 1708722
E: [email protected]

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The Farm Forward project is part of the European Innovative Partnerships (EIP) initiative co-funded by the European Commission and the Irish Government under the CAP Strategic Plan 2023-2027.

Farm Forward: Connecting Generations and Farming for the Future