Young beef farmers can apply to take part in a new, five-year programme that would see ABP supporting them with “financial backing and technical advice” as they develop their own beef herd.

The Young Farmer Academy aim to boost generational renewal on farms by assisting young farmers to develop profitable and sustainable beef enterprises.

Participating young farmers will benefit from finishing bonuses, ABP-financed calf purchases and interim payments to help cashflow.

The programme is open to beef farmers aged 35 and under operating either suckler-beef or dairy-beef systems.

Speaking at the academy’s launch, Minister for Agriculture Martin Heydon welcomed the supports available for young farmers through the initiative to help build “sustainable, resilient farm businesses that contribute positively to the environment and our rural communities”.

Managing director of ABP Ireland Kevin Cahill said that the company is backing the next generation of Irish beef producers.

“We know that starting in farming is incredibly challenging. That’s why we have developed a comprehensive programme to give young farmers a fair start, combining market certainty, technical advice, and practical financial support,” Cahill commented.

ABP has said that its Young Farmer Academy aligns with national policy objectives for generational renewal in farming.