One of the key objectives of the LiveNet project is to strengthen collaboration and knowledge exchange across livestock advisory services. Over the first eight months, this objective has been brought to life through the development of the Irish livestock advisory network.
The Irish livestock advisory network currently brings together approximately 20 members representing a range of organisations across the agricultural and advisory sector. By connecting individuals with different experiences and perspectives, the network has created opportunities for discussion, idea generation, and collaboration around sustainable livestock production in Ireland.
Since its establishment, three workshops have been organised, including two in-person meetings and one online session. The in-person workshops were hosted in contrasting settings, one on a beef demonstration farm and the other in the offices of a breeding company. These environments helped expose participants to different parts of the sector while encouraging open discussion within the Irish livestock advisory network.
Beyond national activities, the network has also engaged at European level. Ireland was represented through participation in an exchange visit and by presenting the Irish livestock advisory network at the EUFRAS General Assembly in February. During this event, a network analysis using the i2connect tool further supported knowledge sharing and reflection.
While the development of the Irish livestock advisory network has been rewarding, it has also presented challenges. One of the first steps involved selecting the right participants. Given that Ireland’s agricultural sector is already well connected, it was important to ensure a balance between diversity of perspectives and maintaining an engaged group.
Sustaining engagement has required flexibility and persistence. Workloads and seasonal pressures within the advisory sector can affect participation. For example, one workshop had to be organised during a particularly busy period, resulting in lower attendance than expected. Maintaining participation and ensuring continued value for members will remain key priorities for the Irish livestock advisory network.
Despite these challenges, the benefits have already become evident. Participants have developed stronger professional connections, and the atmosphere of trust has grown quickly across the network. One organiser reflected on the experience:
“The process of seeing people meeting for the first time at the kick-off meeting to, by the third meeting, feeling comfortable around each other and engaging in good conversations and debates was special.”
This growing sense of openness has enabled meaningful exchanges. In one case, a suggestion made during a meeting was later adopted by the hosting organisation, which is now developing a new product based on that idea. This highlights how the Irish livestock advisory network can support practical outcomes beyond discussion.
Through its first eight months, the Irish livestock advisory network has facilitated exposure to new advisory approaches, strengthened connections across Ireland and Europe, and contributed to improved facilitation and stakeholder engagement skills.
Building and maintaining such a network requires time and commitment. However, the experience so far demonstrates that the relationships, learning opportunities, and collaborative outcomes make it worthwhile. The next phase will focus on sustaining momentum and further developing the Irish livestock advisory network.
