Published: Friday, 3rd September, 2010 12:00pm

Birr to host National Organic Conference

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An exciting panel of speakers including a number of Offaly farmers will explore the challenges and opportunities for organic producers at this year's National Organic Conference on Thursday, September 16, next in the County Arms Hotel, Birr.

The official opening will be performed by the Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Ciarán Cuffe, who is followed by Professor Gerry Boyle, Director, Teagasc, who will speak about soil nutrition, while Kilbeggan-based farmer Pat Lalor will give a farmers perspective. A number of other Teagasc experts will give their views on nutrient management and composting manure.

Session two dealing with market opportunities for organic farming kicks off at 12pm and features well known local businessman Vincent Cleary from Glenisk Dairies in Killeigh, and local meat processor John Purcell, among the large amount of speakers.

The day concludes with a session on how to develop a successful organic brand chaired by John Brennan from Leitrim Organic Farmers Co-op. Local producers Ralph Haslam from Mossfield Cheese in Clareen, Birr, and Orla Clancy from Clanwood Farm in Cloghan will also give a local organic producer's perspective.

The conference cost is €60 (includes organic lunch). To book call Helen McNulty 091 845217 or email:Helen.mcnulty@teagasc.ie