University Students to Debate Meat Consumption and Climate at Agri-Food Event
Ireland’s top agricultural universities are set to clash in the semi-finals of the Great Agri-Food Debate on November 28, hosted by South East Technological University (SETU) Waterford.
This ninth-annual event, organized by Dawn Meats and co-sponsored by McDonald’s, challenges students to tackle pressing issues in the agriculture and food industries.
Four universities—SETU Waterford, University College Cork (UCC), University College Dublin (UCD), and the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE)—have earned their spots in the semi-finals after excelling in virtual preliminary rounds.
The Motions in Focus
The semi-final rounds will see CAFRE proposing that the carnivore diet is an effective solution to health issues caused by processed foods, with UCD opposing.
Meanwhile, reigning champions SETU will argue that regulatory climate change policies are driving a wedge between consumers and farmers, while UCC will take the opposing stance.
The debates aim to highlight critical tensions between modern agricultural practices, consumer health, and climate sustainability.
According to Niall Browne, CEO of Dawn Meats, the debate serves as a platform for future leaders in the agri-food sector. “It’s inspiring to see the knowledge and passion these students bring to the table,” Browne said, expressing optimism for the upcoming final.
Path to the Finals
The competition has seen robust participation this year, with entries from institutions across Ireland and the UK, including Harper Adams University and Scotland’s Rural College.
Judging panels consist of industry leaders such as Brian Hyland, technical director at Dawn Meats Group, and Nicholas Saphir, chair of the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB).
Winners of the final debate will be crowned Great Agri-Food Debate 2024 Champions, with prizes for the best speaker and the winning team. The event is open to public attendance, and those interested can register via Dawn Meats’ corporate affairs contact.
The debates underscore the importance of youth involvement in shaping the future of food production, sustainability, and public health in an increasingly complex global environment.
Explore more debates and discussions on the future of agriculture, meat production, and sustainability. Visit our homepage to stay informed.
