Kerry Dairy Ireland (KDI) has launched a farmer support programme focused on "supporting the mental health and wellbeing" of farming families.

Kerry Dairy Ireland said it is the first dairy processor in Ireland to extend a full Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) to its milk suppliers and their 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 wellbeing 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.”

Fiona O’Carroll, HR director for the dairy business, said: "People are the foundation of our business, from the farm right through the organisation. By extending this support to suppliers and their families, we’re reinforcing a culture where care and wellbeing are prioritised at every level."

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.

"Lyra is dedicated to providing these producers and their immediate families with the tools to thrive," Davis added.

Forward price scheme

In other Kerry Dairy Ireland news this week, the processor offered a new forward price scheme for its milk suppliers.

'Forward Price Scheme 55' opened for applications on Tuesday (March 10) at 3:00p.m and remained open for 24 hours.

The scheme was based on an indicative price of 39.5 to 40.5c/L, including VAT, at constituents of 3.3% protein and 3.6% butterfat.

A spokesperson for Kerry Dairy Ireland said that this forward price scheme will cover the period from March to October 2027.