Mike Ryan of William Byrne Transport has been selected as the winner of the 2026 Tirlán Milk Driver Recognition Award.

Tirlán said the award celebrates the role milk drivers play in supporting farm families and ensuring the flow of milk from farm to processing plant.

The co-op said the response from suppliers was "overwhelming", with more than 85 drivers nominated by farmers across the catchment.

Tirlán

Mike Ryan was selected as the overall winner of the award in recognition of his long-standing commitment to farmers on his Co. Tipperary collection round, covering routes from Drangan to Urlingford.

Based out of Drangan, Co. Tipperary, Mike has been working with William Byrne Transport since 2008 delivering milk to Tirlán's Ballyragget plant.

Mike, who has built a reputation for consistency and pride in his work, followed in his father’s footsteps who was himself a milk haulier.

Tirlán said that in nearly two decades on the road, Mike has taken just one sick day, which the co-op said is "a testament to his dedication and reliability".

The farmers who nominated him described him as a gentleman, helpful, respectable and easy-going.

Several farmers noted Mike's punctuality, with one milk supplier stating that "you could set your watch by him".

Milk drivers

John Murphy, chairperson of Tirlán, said the nominations for the award reflected "a shared appreciation for drivers who go far beyond what’s expected".

Several nominations referred to drivers checking in during particularly difficult periods, or maintaining steady collections when conditions were challenging.

Others spoke about drivers getting through snow and frozen yards during harsh winters to ensure collections continued as normal.

In one case, a driver helped highlight the need for a lane upgrade, supporting ongoing access to the farm and its long-term viability.

"They are a vital link in our co-op, and the strong nominations this year show just how much their commitment is valued right across the country," Murphy said.