Slow Youth Comes to Ireland

After the success of the Slow Food Youth Network (SFYN) conferences in Amsterdam in December 2011 and March 2012, Ireland stepped up to host the SFYN’s third confernce. Young SFYN activists from across the EU met in Dublin last month, to deal with pressing issues such as the future path for the network, and the upcoming Salone del Gusto and Terra Madre.

Blessed with a heatwave and sunshine in a usually rainy city, the setting was perfect. Accommodated by the Irish Tourism Board, Failte Ireland, the young activists met in Dublin’s renowned college for all things gastronomic, the Dublin Institute of Technology. From finances and content to logistics, the young activists passed their opinions back and forth. The outcomes of the two days were very progressive with clear ideas on moving forward, fresh ideas, structures, plans and visions coming to light.

Coinciding with the conference, the weekend concluded with the launch of the Irish branch of the SFYN, SFYN Ireland. Taking place at the third annual Sheridan’s Cheesemongers Food Festival (proud supporters of the Irish artisan community), the day gave European youth in attendance the opportunity to experience true Irish produce and cuisine while offering their hands in the launch of the new network in Ireland.

Focusing on the young food enthusiasts in attendance, the SFYN Ireland offered fun, educational activities such as biscuit making, a cheese education activity with Quinlan Steele of Milleens Cheese and the workshop “Meet the Fish, Eat the Fish” with local chef Pauric White.

Find out more:
[email protected]
www.slowfoodireland.com/sfyn