Tipperary farmers graduated from course setting new standards

21 Tirlán members have proudly graduated as the inaugural class from the Tirlán Governance Academy, having completed the Certificate in Co-op Governance and Professional Development in University College Cork (UCC).

This milestone marks a significant step in building a vibrant, knowledgeable and diverse farmer representative structure for the future of the Co-op.

Tipperary farmers Catherine O’Byrne Casey, Grange; and Kevin Cooney, Clonmel, were among those graduating.

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Developed in partnership with the Centre for Co-operative Studies and the Food Industry Training Unit, UCC and the Irish Co-operative Organisation Society (ICOS), the Governance Academy was launched in 2024 to set new standards for governance excellence in Tirlán’s farmer-owned Co-operative.

The certificate programme, accredited by UCC, is designed specifically for Tirlán members, blending in-person workshops, online webinars, interactive case studies and expert-led discussions to provide a dynamic and practical learning experience.

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The course covers a range of essential topics, including Sustainable Success (professional development for the agri-food sector), communication, teamwork, motivation, performance improvement, personal effectiveness and an introduction to co-operatives and co-operative governance.

Graduates also benefitted from site visits to the Tirlán Innovation Centre, Oats Mill and Abbey Quarter, as well as discussions with the Co-op’s Chairperson and Vice Chairs.