CAP 2028: Science, Policy and the Future of Irish Agriculture
CAP 2028: Science, Policy and the Future of Irish Agriculture
Event Date: Thursday 12th November
Event Location: AgTech innovation centre, UCD Lyons Farm, Lyons Estate, Celbridge, Naas, Co. Kildare, W23 ENY2
The Agricultural Science Association (ASA) invites members and stakeholders to a half-day policy and science forum at UCD Lyons Farm, exploring the future of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) beyond 2027. Supported by ifac and AIB.
Bringing together scientists, policymakers, researchers, farmers and industry representatives, the event will examine CAP funding, the proposed “active farmer” definition, live exports and the implications for Irish farm families, research and rural communities. Taking place shortly after the October AGRIFISH Council meeting, the forum offers a timely opportunity to explore Ireland’s role in shaping CAP negotiations during its EU Presidency, connecting European policy priorities with practical realities at farm level. The programme will include expert discussion and a networking lunch.
Date: Thursday 12th November
Location: AgTech INNOVATION CENTRE, UCD Lyons Farm, Lyons Estate, Celbridge, Naas, Co. Kildare, W23 ENY2
Time: Networking lunch starting from 1:00pm
ASA Membership Offer:
- ASA member rate: €0, including lunch
- Non-member rate: €30 including lunch
- Non-member rate: €100, including lunch & 12 months’ ASA membership
Thursday 12th November
Networking Lunch
13:00
An opportunity for members, sponsors and stakeholders to engage
Welcome Address
13:45
ASA President, Dr. William Minchin
Keynote Speaker
14:00
Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon
Ireland’s EU Presidency: Defending a Strong, Simplified and Future-Focused CAP
Science Spotlight
14:45
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CAP impacts on farm viability
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Land mobility and farm succession
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Sustainable livestock systems and environmental outcomes
CAP Analysis Panel
15:15
Chaired by Mr. Darren Carthy, Sheep and Schemes Editor, Irish Farmers Journal.
Joining the panel is:
- Mr. Paul Savage, Assistant Secretary General, EU/UK and International Affairs, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.
- Professor Alan Matthews, Professor of European Agricultural Policy in the Department of Economics at Trinity College
- Mr. John Donoghue, Chief Executive and Managing Partner, ifac
Meeting Close
16:00
ASA Conference 2026
Thursday, September 3rd 2026
The theme for this year’s Conference, ‘Roots of Resilience - Safeguarding our Food Production model for the next Generation,’ will confront ever changing consumer expectations and how the sector is responding. This years conference will be held at the Killashee Hotel & Spa on Thursday, 3rd September 2026.
