It was an honour to address the very first National Youth Food Summit organised by the National Youth Food Forum at Airfield Estate in Dublin.
Our food systems face huge challenges. Impacts from climate change and biodiversity loss to hunger, malnutrition and food waste, the very foundation of how we produce, distribute and consume food is under threat.
Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow, they can be the change makers of today, so we need to nurture the potential that lies within to ensure we create the sustainable food systems we need now and into the future.
Read the speech I delivered, below;
What a great honour to be here today for the first National Youth Food Summit organised by the National Youth Food Forum. And my sense is that today will be the start of something very special.
This youth food summit is a platform created with a clear purpose: to engage, inspire, and empower our nation's youth to lead the charge in transforming our food systems.
This summit is more than just a meeting of minds—it is a call to action. A call for your generation to take ownership of the future of food in our country, and in doing so, to shape a healthier, more sustainable, and more just world.
Globally, our food systems face enormous challenges. From climate change and loss of biodiversity to hunger, malnutrition, and food waste, the very foundation of how we produce, distribute, and consume food is under threat.
Yet, with these challenges come opportunities — opportunities for innovation, for greater justice and fairness, and for a sustainable food future.
Nationally, we have the same problems. Our farmers are challenged by economic and environmental sustainability. During the many challenges of recent times, our family farms have demonstrated adaptability and resilience, continuing to deliver safe and nutritious food.
Living in uncertain times, we need our farm families producing safe, sustainable, and high-quality food more than ever. The Government supports our farm families to do just that and we will continue to back them.
The challenge of attracting young people and new entrants into a career in farming is widely recognised both at national and EU level.
Demographic challenges for the agricultural sector are not unique to Ireland, with just 7% of farmers under 35 years of age, and almost one third of farmers over 65, similar to the numbers across the EU.
The family farm is the cornerstone of agriculture in Ireland, and generational renewal is critically important to ensure there are skilled and innovative young farmers to ensure the sustainability of family farms.
The work of the upcoming Commission on Generational Renewal in Farming will be vital in that regard, and the most important stakeholders in the room will be the young farmers for whom it is such an important issue.
You, our young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow, you are the changemakers of today. You are more connected, better informed, and more passionate about climate action, social equity, and sustainable living than any previous generation.
You bring fresh perspectives on how we produce and consume food. As digital natives, you can use technology and innovation to rethink agriculture, distribution, and food consumption.
Young people are vocal advocates for sustainability, recognising the urgent need for food systems that meet current needs while safeguarding the planet for future generations. You understand the intersections between food, poverty, health, and social justice.
This summit is more than a one-time event; it is the beginning of a movement that puts young people at the forefront of food system transformation. You will not get all the answers today but by being here, you are part of a growing network of young people committed to reshaping the future of food in Ireland.
The challenges ahead are significant, but so are the possibilities. Together, we can create a sustainable food system that is both just and resilient, and that benefits both people and the planet.
In closing, I want to leave you with this thought: Change starts with you.
You have within you the power to make a difference in how we grow, share, and consume food. Whether you become a farmer, an entrepreneur, an advocate, or an innovator, your voices and actions matter. Our actions matter as consumers too, and it’s critical that we all value food, that we know and respect where it comes from, and that producers – right around the world – get a fair price for their produce.
Let this summit be the catalyst for you to step forward, to take charge, and to lead the way.
I look forward to seeing the wonderful work you will undoubtedly do in the days, months, and years ahead.
Let's make the future of food a future for all.
Thank you
