Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon has officially launched the Sustainable Livestock Village 2026 ahead of this year's Tullamore Show and FBD National Livestock Show on August 9.

Now entering its fourth year, the village brings together organisations from across the agri-food sector to discuss the issues impacting farming.

Farmers can engage directly with experts on topics including water quality, climate action, animal performance, biodiversity, farm succession and generational renewal.

Along with practical advice, there will be demonstrations and farmer-led discussions focused on improving sustainability and resilience on Irish livestock farms.

Participating organisations include the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM), Bord Bia, Teagasc, Animal Health Ireland (AHI), Irish Cattle Breeding Federation (ICBF), FBD, Macra, Meat Industry Ireland (MII), National Dairy Council (NDC) and the Agri-Food Regulator.

Tullamore Show

A key theme for 2026 will be the International Year of the Woman Farmer, recognising the vital contribution women make to Irish agriculture while highlighting the importance of generational renewal.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Martin Heydon said: "Women play a central role in farm businesses, family farming and rural communities across the country".

"It also highlights the need to ensure that farming remains an attractive and accessible career path for the next generation, supporting greater gender balance, innovation and leadership across the sector," he said.

The minister added: "Irish farmers continue to play a vital role in delivering sustainable food production while also addressing challenges around climate, water quality and biodiversity.

"The Sustainable Livestock Village provides an excellent platform for farmers to access practical information, learn from one another and see first-hand the solutions that can help improve both environmental and economic performance on their farms."

Sustainable Livestock Village

Micheal Dolan, chair of the Sustainable Livestock Village at the Tullamore Show, said the village has become "one of the most popular attractions at the Tullamore Show".

"Visitors value the opportunity to engage directly with experts, participate in farmer-led discussions and learn about the latest developments in sustainable livestock production.

"The village showcases practical solutions that farmers can adopt on their own farms while also recognising the considerable efforts and progress made by the sector to help ensure the long-term sustainability of Irish agriculture," he said.