Three in a row for Owen and debating team in London

Mullingar's Owen Maleady and the South East Technological University (SETU) debating team won the 8th annual Great Agri-Food debate, making it three in a row following successes in 2021 and 2022.

Organised by Dawn Meats and McDonald’s, SETU defeated University College Cork (UCC) in the final, having opposed the motion that ‘The solution to negative consumer perceptions of red meat is more honest communication‘.

The final was held in Butchers Hall in London yesterday, and judged by a range of representatives from the agri-food industry and beyond, including Harriet Wilson, agriculture and sustainable sourcing at McDonald’s UK and Ireland; Niall Browne, CEO Dawn Meats and Dunbia; Junior Johnson, director of Operations Food Standards Agency; Siobhan Barnes, senior procurement manager, agriculture and aquaculture Whitbread; and Nick Allen, CEO of British Meat Processors’ Association.

“Every year at this debate, there are new and complex motions that deserve the attention of our industry," said Niall Browne, CEO Dawn Meats.

“We witnessed some well-accomplished debating from a strong cohort of students whose insights, intelligence and enthusiasm make me really positive about the future of Irish and British agriculture.

“Hearty congratulations to the winning team, and my thanks to our partners McDonald’s and all the participants and judges and for making this event such a success.”

Harriet Wilson, agriculture and sustainable sourcing manager for McDonald’s UK and Ireland added: “The Great Agri-Food Debate always sparks thoughtful discussions, and this year was no different.

“We know that in order to futureproof the agriculture industry, we must engage the next generation, so it’s been really inspiring to hear the views from our Progressive Young Farmers and all students involved, on these important topics.”

Owen is a final year Land Management student at South East Technological University, who also captained last year's team to win gold.