European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) president Séamus Boland hosted European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos this week on his family farm in Ballycumber, Co. Offaly.

The pair discussed EU enlargement and the role of civil society in preparing candidate countries for membership.

The meeting took place during Commissioner Kos's visit to Ireland for the EU Council presidency meetings of foreign affairs and European affairs ministers in counties Wicklow and Dublin.

The visit was also an opportunity to exchange views on how rural communities, farmers and civil society organisations contribute to economic resilience, social inclusion and democratic participation.

Boland showed how his family farm combines productive agriculture with environmental stewardship, offering a practical example of sustainable rural development.

Boland's farm is managed in partnership with his son Jamie and uses only natural and non-chemical fertilisers as part of its sustainable farming practices.

The farm is around 32ha in size and has 51 beef heifers for beef production, as well as around 25 sheep at certain points of the year. 

The farm has been owned by the Boland family since 1890.

Boland took over its day-to-day running aged 14 in 1970 after his father became unwell. 

Commissioner visit

He said it was a "great pleasure to welcome Commissioner Kos" to his farm this week.

"Enlargement is one of the EU's most important strategic projects," Boland said.

"It is about bringing people together around shared values of democracy, solidarity and opportunity.

"As someone who has spent their life working with rural communities and civil society organisations, I know that successful enlargement must involve citizens and communities, not just governments and institutions."

Commissioner Kos thanked Boland for hosting the visit to his farm, adding: "Europe is built in our communities, by people who take responsibility for their future. The same is true for enlargement.

"Joining the EU means changing laws, but above all transforming societies.

"Governments have to lead, but we need citizens, farmers, businesses and civil society to make enlargement a success. Their voice must be part of the process from the very beginning."

In July, Boland also hosted European Commissioner for the Environment, Jessika Roswall on his farm for a discussion on sustainable farming, biodiversity and the future of rural communities.