EU4Advice at “Feeding Ourselves” Online Gathering 

The “Feeding Ourselves” online gathering on October 24, 2024, provided an essential forum for exploring the transformation of Ireland’s food system. Davie Philip, from Cultivate, represented the EU4Advice project.

Feeding Ourselves is a community of practice for regenerative, community-led, and cooperative local food initiatives. It facilitates capacity building and peer support while strengthening a solidarity food movement on the island of Ireland.

Ruth Hegerty, Food Systems & Food Policy Specialist, started the event with insights into the Feeding Ourselves Community of Practice (CoP), highlighting its role in promoting local food systems, agroecology, and sustainability. She emphasised the CoP’s commitment to enhancing short food supply chains and supporting local economies.

The event featured updates from various initiatives, including Talamh Beo’s participation in the Methane Matters EU Coalition and Cloughjordan Community Farm‘s involvement in the Soilcrates project. Charles Stanley-Smith provided an overview of the national Agricultural Knowledge and Information System (AKIS), noting its centralised structure and plans to foster collaboration with CoP stakeholders.

Working groups within the CoP presented updates on local food policy, land observatory development, and EU4Advice, focusing on training for Short Food Supply Chain (SFSC) advisors. Breakout sessions highlighted the vital role of local food facilitators in connecting farmers, consumers, and policymakers while stressing the need for education on local food benefits.

Discussions on land observatory development centred on ensuring land management aligns with Ireland’s constitutional principles. Participants examined strategies to monitor land use changes and improve access for new farmers.

The gathering concluded with a “Next Steps” section, encouraging collaboration and sharing of future events within the community. This highlighted a shared dedication to enhancing Ireland’s food systems.