Feasibility Study on Producer Organisations in the Irish Organic Sector

A Teagasc commissioned feasibility study to evaluate the potential role of Producer Organisations (POs) in enhancing and supporting the Irish organic agricultural sector

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The organic sector in Ireland is growing, with ambitious EU and national targets requiring further sustained growth over the coming years. In order to achieve this growth, the sector will have to overcome numerous challenges that could hinder its development. 

Recommendations

1. Establish a centralised PO hub to provide clear, accessible information and resources for organic farmers interested in forming or joining POs.
2. Appoint a dedicated person to drive the growth of POs and establish the PO hub. It is suggested that DAFM issue a call for Expressions of Interest from interested parties who
   are willing to drive the establishment of POs.
3. The provision of DAFM PO guidelines specific to the tillage sector, similar to what DAFM already provide for dairy and beef sectors.
4. Remove regulatory blockers that disproportionately affect organic POs such as minimum requirements on member numbers/turnover.
5. Develop a comprehensive PO handbook tailored to organic producers, outlining step-by-step processes for PO establishment and management.
6. Implement funding and training programmes focussed on the skills needed for a successful PO including supply chain management, sales and marketing, market positioning, trust and communication, encouraging member participation in POs and financial management.
7. Create a PO pilot scheme to allow producers, particularly those in informal groups, to test the concept of a PO or participate in PO workshops before full commitment.
8. Explore mechanisms that will support POs after the Early-Stage Support for Producer Organisations programme, for years 3 to 5, and for the longer term.
9. Investigate digital tools or templates that could be made available to POs to improve data collection, forecasting, and communication to enhance supply chain coordination.
10. Provide support for POs to develop effective marketing and branding strategies, potentially through collaboration with existing agricultural marketing bodies. Funding and support for website and marketing material development would also be of benefit here.
11. Promote the establishment of APOs where there is more than one PO in a sector.
12. Promote collaboration between POs and research institutions to drive innovation.
13. Encourage the formation of regional pick-up points or hubs to facilitate shared transport and logistics for organic producers.
14. Explore opportunities for joint processing facilities, particularly in the fruit and vegetable and tillage sectors, to add value to organic products.
15. Investigate shared purchasing initiatives for organic inputs to reduce costs and support local organic production.
16. Investigate the potential for machinery and labour sharing POs, particularly in horticulture and tillage sectors.
17. Consider the formation of a specialised organic hill lamb PO to address challenges in that sector