Professor Patrick Wall spoke to members of the Fermanagh Grassland Club at the Killyhevlin Hotel in Enniskillen in March. The professor of public health at UCD, a qualified doctor and veterinarian, previously addressed the club in 2012.

Wall's topic covered health for farmers and their livestock. He stated that farming adds value to society and that farmers' health represents their key asset. He noted mental health holds equal importance to physical health.

He advised farmers to pursue pastimes to disconnect from work and recharge. Wall drew lessons on diet and health from people in Far East countries. He pointed out UK pharmaceutical companies provide drugs to maintain health.

Wall examined production systems for farm animals and linked them to human health, particularly nutrition for older individuals. He said farmers produce food and thus operate in the nutrition sector.

He indicated farmers contribute to public health, consumer confidence, and regulatory compliance. Traceability allows food ingredients to link back to farms.

Wall discussed food fraud, Bluetongue disease risks, TB outbreaks, and environmental effects as challenges for food producers. He mentioned ongoing work in genetics and climate-adapted diets.

He encouraged farmers to lead on these issues. Precision agriculture aids biosecurity and environmental protection.