Laois farmer wins at Young Farmer of the Year Awards
Young Laois man won land category, also contested for the overall Young Farmer of the Year Award
Errill farmer Liam Barton has won the Land Mobility Award at the prestigious FBD Young Farmer of the Year Awards.
He was declared the winner of the category at a banquet this month in the Heritage Hotel, Killenard, where Shane Halpin was declared Dublin’s first winner of the FBD Young Farmer of the Year Award.
Liam, who was also shortlisted for the overall award, operates a low-cost, grass-based system in Errill, Co. Laois, running on a 50% owned and 50% leased land base in a Registered Farm Partnership with his father.
The enterprise specialises in contract rearing replacement heifers alongside purchasing and rearing beef and dairy calves, driven by a strong focus on precise grassland management, soil health, and meeting strict weight-for-age targets. Liam holds a BSc (Hons) in Agriculture and Land Management and works full-time as a Livestock Agent. Alongside running the farm, he is an active member of Rathdowney Macra.
The Land Mobility Award honours achievements in shared milking, contract rearing, family partnerships, and collaborative land use.
The competition is organised by Macra na Feirme in partnership with FBD and the IFA. Now in its 28th year, it recognises the achievements, innovation and contribution of Ireland’s young farmers.
Chairman of the FBD Trust Michael Berkery expressed his congratulations to all award recipients on the night. Macra National President Josephine O’Neill also congratulated the overall winner.
IFA President Francie Gorman praised all participants in this year’s competition.
“The calibre of those who take part each year is very impressive, and it is no different with this group. Their passion and commitment bode very well for the future and prove that the next generation is equipped for the challenges ahead.
“I want to wish everybody involved with the event the very best. Congratulations to the winner, Shane.
"I have no doubt all the participants thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The level of innovation and dedication they displayed during the judging process is an indication of how committed they are to their chosen career. Having put themselves forward on this occasion, I would encourage the participants to consider taking up leadership positions outside the farmgate. It provides an opportunity to shape policy at a very important time,” said the Ballinakill man.