The Great Agri-Food Debate is an annual competition designed to promote critical thinking, communication skills, and informed discussion among the next generation of agri-food leaders. Seven universities competed in this year’s heats on topics relating to sustainability, agricultural policy, and global supply-chain challenges.

The 2026 final marks the 10th year of the competition, with this year’s finalists representing four Irish universities who advanced from the heats:

• University College Dublin (UCD)
• South East Technological University (SETU)
• College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE)
• Atlantic Technological University (ATU)

Key Themes & Debate Topics

Competitors debate motions surrounding:

• Sustainability & environmental impacts
• EU agricultural & policy regulation
• Global supply-chain risk
• Trade, economics & food systems
• Future of the agri-food workforce

Organisers & Sponsors

Organised by Dawn Meats
Co-sponsored by McDonald’s

For other events at the Setu Arena click here