Friday last saw Ballyhoura Development CLG officially launched its new Farm Succession and Generational Renewal Service at the historic and scenic Tory Hill Farm in Croom, Co. Limerick.
The initiative, titled ‘Farm Forward: Connecting Generations, Farming For the Future’, has been developed to support farmers, farm families and future farmers in planning for succession, diversification, and long-term sustainability on family farms across the Ballyhoura area.
Tory Hill Farm was selected as the launch venue on Friday 31st, as the farm represents three generations of women living, working, and farming side by side – a living example of the values at the heart of the Farm Forward programme: continuity, legacy, and shared future planning. The location offered the perfect backdrop to highlight the emotional and practical reality of farm succession and the importance of family-led decision-making.
The new service was officially launched by Cllr Ian Doyle, Deputy Mayor of Cork County Council and will be led by Carrie O’Donoghue, Ballyhoura Development CLG Farm Succession & Generational Renewal Coach, who will work directly with farm families through confidential, one-to-one supports.
STARTING THE CONVERSATION
“I believe this service will meet each person where they are and lead them step by step towards achieving peace of mind, knowing they have a succession plan in place – or have at least started the conversation,” said Carrie O’Donoghue at the launch. “I am excited to assist farmers with this process and, in the coming years, support them in areas such as farm diversification and the health and wellbeing benefits of being part of a connected network of active and retired farmers.”
Alongside succession planning, Farm Forward will also support farm diversification pathways and establish a Ballyhoura Farmers Health & Wellbeing Network to strengthen community and peer support.
How to Access the Service
Farmers can arrange an appointment at any of Ballyhoura Development’s offices in Kilfinane, Kilmallock, Mitchelstown, Charleville or Cappamore. Meetings can also take place at neutral venues or online via Zoom/Teams.
