Two Laois farmers are cream of the crop
Alan Stephenson (left), Tirlán chair Ger O’Brien and Bernard Ging at the UCC graduation. Photo: John Allen
TWO Laois farmers are the cream of the crop, after graduating with a Tirlán certificate from University College Cork (UCC).
Alan Stephenson and Bernard Ging were among the second cohort of Tirlán Co-op farmer members to graduate from the university on 6 November, having completed the Tirlán Governance Academy Certificate in Co-op Governance and Professional Development.
Tirlán said the milestone reflected its continued investment in developing ‘a vibrant and diverse farmer representative structure’ for the co-operative’s future.
Developed in partnership with the Centre for Co-operative Studies and the Food Industry Training Unit at UCC, together with the Irish Co-operative Organisation Society (ICOS), the Governance Academy was launched in 2024 to support ‘high standards of governance’ across Tirlán’s farmer-owned co-operative.
The UCC-accredited certificate is exclusive to Tirlán members and combines in-person workshops, online learning, interactive case studies and expert-led discussions, providing an engaging and practical learning experience. There were 15 graduates, including three women, in the second cohort.
The course covers professional development for the agri-food sector, communication, teamwork, motivation, performance improvement, personal effectiveness and an introduction to co-operatives and key principles of co-operative governance, including the legislative and regulatory basis for co-operatives and roles and responsibilities within co-operatives.
Participants also gain practical insight through site visits and engagement with Tirlán leaders and governance representatives.
Congratulating the graduates, Tirlán chairperson Ger O'Brien said: “Their commitment to learning and leadership will help strengthen participation and good governance across our co-op. We look forward to seeing them use the knowledge, confidence and connections developed through the course as they continue their involvement with Tirlán.”
Dr Bridget Carroll of UCC said the participants brought valuable experience and insight to the programme, creating a rich and practical learning environment. She added: “We are delighted to recognise their achievement and the contribution they can make to the future of co-operative governance.”
According to Tirlán, the second graduation builds on the success of the inaugural cohort and highlights the positive impact of the Governance Academy in developing knowledge, confidence and stronger connections within the co-op community.
Through its tiered structure, the Academy supports members at different stages of their governance ‘journey’ and helps create pathways for future participation in Tirlán’s representative structure.
