In a recent letter to the editor of the Irish Times, the Secretary of the United Irishwomen highlighted the burgeoning interest in cheese-making in Ireland, sparking a conversation about the potential for growth in this sector. One enthusiastic cheese-maker from West Limerick shared their own experience, underscoring the profitability and satisfaction derived from this occupation.

Despite encountering challenges related to limited output, with demand outstripping supply, the cheese-maker remains optimistic about the future of the industry. They argue that there is ample opportunity for expansion, as evidenced by the insatiable appetite for high-quality Irish cheese.

Contrary to concerns about cheese-making diminishing the availability of milk as a food source, the writer contends that cheese production can actually complement existing dairy practices. With a gallon of milk roughly equivalent to a pound of cheese in terms of value, converting surplus milk into cheese offers a viable economic alternative.

Moreover, cheese-making presents numerous advantages over butter-making. Cheese fetches a better return, boasts a longer shelf life, and requires less costly equipment. The writer advocates for creameries to embrace cheese-making alongside butter-making, capitalizing on seasonal variations in milk supply to meet the demands of both markets.

The infrastructure necessary for cheese-making already exists in many creameries, making the transition relatively seamless. By encouraging creameries to diversify their operations, the writer believes Ireland can leverage its abundant pastures and high-quality dairy cattle to become a major player in the global cheese market.

The letter serves as a passionate plea to stakeholders in the dairy industry to recognize the untapped potential of cheese-making in Ireland. Embracing this opportunity could not only bolster the economy but also celebrate the rich tradition of dairy farming that has long been synonymous with the Irish countryside.

As the new season approaches, the writer urges prompt action to seize this opportunity and ensure that Ireland takes its rightful place as a leading cheese-producing nation. It is a call to arms for all those invested in the prosperity of the Irish dairy sector to unite in support of this important endeavour.

Evening Irish Times – Wednesday 06 December 1916