Dairygold launched a farm succession programme on Tuesday, Dairygold Pathways, for new, expanding and retiring milk suppliers. The initiative offers options and practical guidance for members considering forming partnerships, planning transfer arrangements, or new entrants to dairy farming, as well as for those preparing to step back from day-to-day farming.
Pathways, the Dairygold Farm Succession Guide, was launched at a special Farm Succession Event in Corrin Event Centre, Fermoy, where over 200 Dairygold members turned out to receive information and advice on farm succession. The event featured Dairygold suppliers, alongside a panel of legal, taxation and advisory experts brought together to discuss key topics including wills, tax planning, and farm transfer structures, providing practical information and focused advice for members navigating complex decisions.
STRUCTURED SUPPORT
Dairygold chairperson, Pat Clancy, said the Co-Operative is committed to supporting members through these important generational milestones.
“Succession planning is a case-by-case process, and the right solutions look different for every family. What remains constant is the benefit to all Society members of agreeing a firm pathway for succession on farm and to enable the next generation to take the next step on their journey as they continue to develop and farm the land.
“Dairying continues to be a fantastic career and we look forward to establishing young farmer groups and hosting further events to support our members. Our Dairygold Pathways Farm Succession Guide and our overall Pathways Programme are designed to provide members with the information and practical guidance they need.”
Recent Dairygold Milk Supplier Census data gathered by the Co-Op shows that the average age of a Dairygold milk supplier is 59, and 15% currently have no successor identified. These findings highlight the increasing urgency around succession planning on dairy farms and the need for structured, practical supports for members.
Succession is a nationwide challenge and the Pathways programme is aligned with the recent Commission on Generational Renewal in Farming report launched by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon.
The Pathways farm succession guide and farm succession event, are the first stage initiatives organised as part of Dairygold’s new overall Pathways programme.
During 2025, Dairygold appointed Paul O’Connell to the role of dedicated Farm Succession Manager within the Co-Op to assist members and offer a single point of contact for all queries on succession.
