The closing date for nominations for the so-called ‘Talamh Awards’ is fast approaching. These accolades are designed to recognise success in Irish agriculture and the wider rural sector, as a key contributor to the Irish economy.

The awards are presented in partnership with the Royal Dublin Society (RDS). According to the organisers, they are “structured around key areas of Irish farming and rural enterprise, with a particular focus on sustainability”.

The closing date for nominations is Tuesday, July 17.

The categories are:
  • Young Agri-Scientist Award;
  • Sustainable Farming Award;
  • National Agriculture Achievement Award;
  • Innovation/Technology Award;
  • Emerging Business Award;
  • Product of the Year Award;
  • Agri-tourism Award;
  • Local Hero Award;
  • Ceres Award.

Winners will be selected by a panel of agricultural and rural enterprise personnel. The organisers say that each entry will be judged on merit, regardless of company size.

Entries will be judged in accordance with the following criteria:
  • Successful and sustainable business;
  • Strength and ambition of ideas;
  • Innovative concepts and approaches;
  • Courage, strategy and determination;
  • Positive engagement benefiting the sector.

The judging panel includes: John Dardis (RDS); Tom Kirley (RDS); Prof. Cathal O’Donoghue (NUI Galway); Doirin Graham (Clare Local Development Company); Dr. Edmond Harty (Dairymaster); Mark Gibson (Teagasc); and Majella Kelleher (SEAI).

Gala awards dinner

The winners will be presented with their awards at a gala dinner in the RDS on Friday, October 12. Each recipient will be presented with a unique, hand-crafted trophy – designed by silversmith Eimear Conyard.

Entry is free; visit www.talamhawards.ie for more information.