Mike Magan is a prominent farmer based in County Longford, Ireland, renowned for his progressive approach to dairy farming and his leadership within the agricultural community. Mike was central to the establishment of AHI in 2009 and, serving as Chair until 2021, and created the opportunity for a partnership approach to animal health in Ireland, bringing together farmers, processors, animal health advisors, and government.
At Mike’s retirement as AHI Chair in December 2021, Charlie McConalogue TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, noted: “Mike Magan has been and will continue to be one of the great leaders of the agri-sector. Mike’s leadership in the space of animal health has ensured our sector is better placed to face the challenges we will encounter in the future.”
Mike farms with family in Killashee , Co. Longford. Together they run a 200 cow spring calving herd. Mike has an excellent attitude towards grassland management and over the past few years he has focused on improving many aspects of the grazing platform. This includes soil fertility, grazing infrastructure and pasture measurement. On his farm, Mike utilises advanced technologies and sustainable practices to ensure high standards of dairy production, animal welfare, and environmental sustainability. His commitment to education and continuous learning allows him to stay at the forefront of agricultural innovation.
Beyond his farming operations, Mike plays an influential role in various agricultural organisations, advocating for policies that support sustainable farming and rural development. He is deeply engaged with his community, often participating in educational outreach programs that promote agriculture and environmental stewardship. Mike’s dedication to excellence in farming has earned him numerous awards and accolades, marking him as a leader and innovator in Irish agriculture.
Most recently, Mike was conferred with an honorary Doctor of Science degree by University College Dublin. Honorary degrees are conferred by the University to recognise distinguished individuals for their sustained excellence in scholarly, scientific or artistic endeavour and for outstanding professional or philanthropic activity to advance the public good. The conferring of this honorary degree recognises Mike Magan’s extraordinary contribution to the Irish dairy industry, to Animal Health Ireland (AHI), to UCD, and to Irish society more broadly.
