Lisavaird Co-Op has marked the anniversary of its founding at an event held at the new co-op group offices yesterday (Monday, March 10).

In attendance were members of the committee of management, along with former chairpeople and vice-chairpeople of Lisavaird Co-op, which is part of Carbery Group.

Representatives from the other west Cork co-ops, as well as Jason Hawkins, CEO of Carbery Group, were in attendance. The occasion was marked by the official opening of the new offices by Mairead McGuinness, former European Commissioner and MEP.

The co-op said the event was "a momentous occasion, recognising the legacy and continued success of Lisavaird Co-op".

Martin Dineen, CEO of Lisavaird Co-op, expressed his appreciation for all those who have contributed to the Co-op’s journey, saying: “Today is a celebration of the hard work and dedication of our shareholders, committee members, suppliers, customers, and staff, both past and present.

"Lisavaird Co-op has thrived through decades of change and it is thanks to the strength and commitment of this community that we continue to grow and innovate," Dineen added.

James Healy, chairperson of the Committee of Management, reflected on the co-op’s milestones and its future, saying: “From humble beginnings, Lisavaird Co-Op has evolved into a key player in the west Cork agricultural and business community.

"The founders of this co-op would be proud of where their vision has led. As we look forward, we remain dedicated to supporting our farmers, suppliers and the local community with the same cooperative spirit that has defined us for generations," Healy added.

The co-op said it "looks forward to more events celebrating the co-op’s centenary throughout the year ahead".

One of the more recent initiatives that Lisavaird Co-op has become involved in is the ‘Classroom to Farm’ programme.

Students from Leap National School and Maulthrane National School recently took part in the initiative at Denis and Collette O’Donovan’s farm in Glandore, Co. Cork.

Supported by Lisavaird, in partnership with Carbery, the programme has been running for two years and was set up by four farming families representing each of the four west Cork co-ops.

The national school students were joined by transition year students from Mount Saint Michael’s in Rosscarbery and the group was given a hands-on learning experience about modern dairy farming.