Carlow farmer proudly graduates from university with sustainable farming degree

Twenty Tirlán farmers proudly graduated as the third group of family farm suppliers from the Tirlán and Baileys Sustainable Farming Academy.

Carlow farmer Liam Walsh was among those graduating.

The 2025 graduates completed their Diploma in Environment, Sustainability, and Climate from University College Cork (UCC), following a year-long programme to equip them with essential skills and knowledge to further enhance sustainable farming practices.

The Academy, now in its third year, continues to help farm families implement positive environmental actions while addressing the ongoing challenges around sustainability.

READ NEXT: Carlow renters feeling the pinch as new report shows double-digit price hikes across county

Carol Power, Senior Sales Manager at Tirlán, congratulated this year’s graduates:

“Sustainability is integral to our operations, both on our farms and throughout our Co-op. The graduates have demonstrated exceptional dedication to understanding and embedding sustainability on their farms. In alignment with Tirlán’s Living Proof strategy, we are committed to supporting our farm family suppliers in addressing current and future sustainability challenges.” She further stated, “Our collaboration with Baileys is fundamental to producing a world-class product, and it is encouraging to see the ever-growing interest in participating in our Sustainable Farming Academy.”

Tirlán Chairperson, John Murphy paid tribute to Tirlán milk supplier and talented cyclist Tomás Walsh who passed away tragically in Paris during the summer.

“We are thinking of Tomás today as his parents and friends join the graduation class to collect his diploma. Tomás was a very engaged and valued class member, and our thoughts are very much with the Walsh family.”