Dr. Noreen Byrne and Dr. Olive McCarthy, in their capacities as programme co-directors of the MSc Sustainable Development, Agri-Food and Co-operatives, at Cork University Business School, accepted an invitation to attend the awarding of the Agricola Medal to President Michael D. Higgins at Aras an Uachtaráin by the United Nations FAO. This medal recognises the President's tremendous work in advancing global food security and poverty alleviation.
In his address to invitees, President Higgins spoke about 'Achieving food security from below' and the importance of giving agency to people on the ground in achieving food security.
His speech referred to 'globalisation from below' to foster a participatory economy and he concluded by saying:
"We must endeavour, together, in our diverse world [and] seek to construct a co-operative, caring and non-exploitative global civilisation."