The Tullamore Show was officially opened by Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue, with Taoiseach Simon Harris and Minister of State with responsibility for Farm Safety Martin Heydon also in attendance at the Butterfield Estate.
This year's show in Co Offaly, received the highest number of entries ever, with over 5,000 in hundreds of competitions and classes in livestock and farm produce.
The event was held on a working farm which was transformed over the last few weeks into a showground for livestock, machinery, marquees, demo areas and food stalls.
Commission to encourage young farmers
Minister McConalogue announced his intention to establish a Commission on Generational Renewal in Farming which he hopes will be up and running this autumn.
The aim of the commission is to look at increasing the number of young people entering the farming sector and look at any unintended barriers for those considering farm succession.
The minister said there are a number of supports in place for young farmers, but he wants to ensure they're working.
"The future of Irish agriculture is very much dependent on bringing new people and new blood into the sector to drive it forward and to avail of the opportunities that are going to be there," he said.
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He said over the four years he has been in the role, the Government has doubled the funding that is going to young people.
"As we look towards the next Common Agricultural Policy, I'm setting up a commission on generation renewal to bring all key minds and stakeholders in the sector together to make sure that everything we're doing - our policy infrastructure and the supports we put in place going forward - is all centred around making sure we're bringing new young people into agriculture," the minister added.
He also highlighted how important it is to make sure it is a profitable and worthwhile career for young people to be involved in.
IFA President Francie Gorman said less than 7% of Irish farmers are under the age of 35, a figure which has more or less halved in the last 20 years, adding that income challenges are putting new entrants off entering farming.
Meanwhile, the Sustainable Livestock Village, which proved so popular last year, was back at the show, with a focus on practical solutions for farmers.
It showcased the steps farmers are taking to enhance farm sustainability and reduce the environmental impact of their farms.
Tullamore Show Livestock Chairman Michael Dolan said: "This year, we’ve added a new feature - the Speakers' Corner - which will offer farmers an opportunity to engage with other farmers to discuss key issues facing our industry."
More than 400 volunteers have been involved in the 30th Tullamore Show which, apart from livestock, featured a Fashion and Features Pavilion, Odlums All Ireland Home Baking Championship, a vintage display of farm machinery and a wide range of family entertainment and attractions.
The event has always been about showcasing the very best of the country’s agricultural produce, according to Tullamore Show Chairman Joe Molloy.
"Tullamore Show has been a huge part of the country's social calendar since the show was revived in 1991, and we are delighted to be keeping that tradition alive," said Mr Molloy.
This year's commercial cattle section was one of the largest sections in the show with a record 380 entries, making it the largest gathering of commercial cattle assembled for a one day show.
There were also three dairy breeds on show with entries surpassing expectations.
While the sheep section has growing year on year, this event saw close to 1,000 entries.
'Farm Safety Live' also made a significant return to the Tullamore Show highlighting the importance of maintaining safety in one of Ireland's most hazardous working environments.
Over the past decade, farm-related accidents have resulted in 191 farming fatalities from 2014 to 2023.
Farm vehicles accounted for 44% of these deaths, with livestock being the second highest category, contributing to 19% of those deaths.
The event was organised by FRS Training, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA), and FBD Insurance in collaboration with the Tullamore Show.
HSA Assistant Chief Executive Officer Dr Adrienne Duff said: "The unsafe use of farm vehicles and machinery is a leading cause in many farm fatalities.
"Our demonstration area at Farm Safety Live will focus on vehicle safety, stressing the importance of maintaining good driving techniques and keeping vulnerable individuals away from active work zones. Together, we can enhance farm safety and protect our loved ones."
Tullamore Show Secretary Chelsey Cox McDonald expressed the show's commitment to farm safety: "Highlighting farm safety is a crucial part of our show programme.
"We urge everyone to 'think farm safety' and work towards eliminating risks. The number of families affected by farm tragedies each year is truly heart-wrenching."
