Wexford farmer highlights role of women in agriculture at major Cork conference

Around 600 women from farming and rural communities have gathered in Cork today for one of the biggest events celebrating the role of women in Irish agriculture.

The annual Women & Agriculture Conference is taking place at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Little Island, marking the first time the event has been held in Cork since it began in 2008.

Among those attending is North Wexford farmer Elizabeth McDonald, Wexford IFA County Secretary and Farm Family Committee representative, who has been speaking to South East Radio News about the importance of recognising women's contribution to farming and rural life.

This year's conference has added significance as 2026 has been designated the International Year of the Woman Farmer by the United Nations, recognising the vital role women play in agriculture around the world.

The event, organised by Irish Country Living and the Irish Farmers Journal with support from FBD Insurance, is now in its 17th year. It brings women together for discussions, practical information and opportunities to share experiences across the agricultural sector.

Women make up a significant part of Ireland's farming workforce. Figures from the Central Statistics Office's 2023 Farm Structure Survey show that women account for 34.1% of Ireland's farming labour force, while 13.3% of farm holders are female.

The conference programme includes discussions on rural crime, financial matters for farming families and the International Year of the Woman Farmer. Keynote speaker Anna May McHugh, who has spent decades involved in the National Ploughing Championships, is also addressing delegates.

For women working in agriculture, the event provides an opportunity to highlight their contribution, discuss the challenges facing farm families and strengthen connections across rural communities.