Kerry Dairy Ireland launches farmer wellbeing programme

IRELAND – Kerry Dairy Ireland (KDI) has launched a farmer support programme focused on supporting the mental health and well-being of farming families.

The business said the programme offers 24/7 confidential counselling, wellbeing support and guidance, at no cost, to farm families.

Kerry Dairy Ireland said that farmers will have access to counselling, mental‑health support, financial and legal advice, parenting and family guidance, and crisis assistance via phone, app, or online.

According to the milk processor, the farmer support programme marks a significant evolution in how processors can strengthen the well-being and long‑term resilience of their supplier base.

Pat Murphy, CEO of Kerry Dairy Ireland, said: “We recognise the growing pressures facing farming families. Extending our Employee Assistance Programme to suppliers ensures they have expert, confidential support whenever they need it. An industry first we’re proud to deliver.”

The support programme is developed by Lyra International, an employee assistance company.

Andrew Davis, president of Lyra International, commented: “A partnership with Kerry Dairy Ireland is a commitment to the people who fuel Ireland’s heritage. By including milk suppliers in this wellbeing rollout, we are addressing a vital need for mental health access in the agricultural sector.

Kerry Co-op to suspend 2026 share-up collection

Recently, the company suspended an upcoming share-up collection, which would have seen suppliers contribute a total of 5c/L on milk supplied.

The decision is being taken in response to downward pressure on milk prices for suppliers, the co-op said.

The board of Kerry Co-operative Creameries has confirmed its decision to suspend the proposed 2026 share-up collection following a “review” of current market and financial conditions.

The share-up, which was due to commence in April, would have required milk suppliers to Kerry Dairy Ireland to contribute 1c/L on milk supplied until a total of 5c/L was reached.

However, due to the low milk prices, the board decided that going ahead with the share-up would have compounded the financial pressure on suppliers, Kerry Co-op said.

 The business said: “In light of milk prices currently running well below the cost of production, the board concluded that proceeding at this time would place undue pressure on suppliers facing significant financial strain.”

The co-op said that the decision to suspend the share-up is provided for under its governing framework.

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