OGI launches formal membership
As spring rolls in, the OGI is preparing new ground! To better represent growers and strengthen the organisation for the long term, we’re transitioning to a formal membership model as the next step in ensuring organic growers in Ireland have a clear, collective voice into the future.
Recently, a major vegetable-growing enterprise in Co. Kilkenny went into liquidation, a stark reminder of the pressures many growers face. Farms take years, often decades, of hard work to establish, and losing a business so suddenly affects not just the family behind it but the whole sector. Rising costs, difficult weather conditions and market pressures are not isolated issues, they are being felt across Irish horticulture.
When a single grower can account for a significant share of the domestic market, its loss highlights how vulnerable the current system is. If Ireland is to build a more resilient food system, it needs a more balanced and diverse grower base. Small-scale growers make a vital contribution, yet their role is often overlooked. Building a more resilient, diverse food system requires a strong, united voice for organic horticulture.
The OGI was built by growers, for growers. Over the past number of years, we’ve grown from an informal grower network into a nationally recognised organisation, with support from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. We now have a seat at the table, and we want to use it to represent your realities and needs.
OGI Membership gives you a voice in supporting and shaping the development of the organic growing sector at a national level. Through representation, advocacy and engagement with policy and industry forums, we’ll work to highlight the real challenges and opportunities facing growers across Ireland.
As a member, you’ll also gain access to practical supports, knowledge sharing opportunities, training updates, events, peer-to-peer networks, webinars, farm walks and more. More than anything, OGI Membership is about being part of a community of growers and supporters working together to build a more resilient, sustainable future for Irish organic horticulture. We’ve kept membership simple and fairly priced so it’s accessible to all.
Thank you to everyone who has been part of the OGI journey so far. Join us today and help shape the future of organic growing in Ireland. We look forward to growing together.