14 November 2024

Invest wisely and the loss of an industry great

Michael Hennessy, Head of Crops Knowledge Transfer, reminds farmers to focus their investments in areas where there is a clear payback. Michael also provides a fitting tribute to Jim O’Mahony, a stalwart of the industry whose innovations still form a key pillar of Teagasc tillage advice today.

This week, the FTMTA Machinery Show took place in Punchestown, a highly popular event that showcases the latest and best technology from machinery companies. It attracts a large number of tillage farmers from across the country.

Speaking with many farmers at the event, it was clear that the mood was more optimistic compared to earlier in the year. The successful spring crop harvest and smooth establishment of winter crops contributed to this positive outlook.

A few weeks ago, I highlighted the importance of upgrading machinery to improve efficiency and reduce downtime caused by breakdowns. However, these investments need to be weighed against the overall profitability of your farm and the crops you grow.

A key takeaway from my conversations at the show was the emphasis on understanding costs. One farmer argued that too many are investing in machinery rather than making strategic investments that would benefit their farms in the long run.

This point was well-founded, as he had spent the last three weeks maintaining drains, clearing outlets, and enhancing field drainage on his own farm. His focus was on spending money where there is a clear payback, especially given the potential pressure to manage tax liabilities. It’s hard to disagree with his reasoning – investing in areas that yield long-term benefits is often a smarter move than spending on machinery alone.

Jim O’Mahony

In the past week, the tillage industry lost Jim O’Mahony who for over 30 years led the Teagasc team through many of the technical innovations. Teagasc extends our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends at this time.

Jim was widely known across the country as an energetic champion of tillage farming. Starting his career in the Department of Agriculture as a teacher and running variety trials, he was instrumental in pioneering agricultural advancements, particularly in crop protection, ensuring Irish tillage farmers stayed at the cutting edge.

Jim joined the ACOT advisory service that later became Teagasc. Throughout his career, Jim as a Tillage Specialist delivered technical expertise nationwide, supporting farmers individually and at seminars and farm walks, where he was renowned for his agronomic knowledge and commitment.

Many of his knowledge transfer initiatives, such as the Tillage Costs and Returns booklet, are now longstanding resources, in production for over 35 years. Jim also championed the annual Teagasc Crop Report, which remains a key advisory tool.

Jim was a true gentleman, always eager to help individuals and the wider industry grow and succeed. He will be remembered as one of the most influential figures in tillage over the last three decades.

May he rest in peace.