Series 33 Programme 7
RTÉ One – – 7:00pm Thursday 18th December, 2025; Repeated 1:10pm, Sunday 21st December 2025
Hot tub Farmer
As Gen Z farmers step into adulthood, they’re redefining what their futures – and their careers look like.
Jack Keane works side by side with his dad Noel on the Dairy Farm in Ardmore, Co. Waterford. But Jack has also set up his own off-farm business which is bringing a little bit of luxury to the Waterford coastline.
He has a mobile sauna and jacuzzi, which he rents to locals and visitors on the beach overlooking the family farm. For Jack, it’s not just about the extra income, but a sense of independence and ownership over his future.
Blue Tongue
On the 29th of November, DAERA, Northern Ireland’s Agriculture Ministry, reported a suspected animal disease outbreak on a farm near Bangor, Co Down. Bluetongue – a viral disease, spread by midges, had reached Irish shores.
While the situation is being managed, the spread of Bluetongue could have a major economic and animal welfare impact on Irish Agriculture.
Stephen Robb travels to Belfast to see how the outbreak is being managed.
3D Toy Maker
Adam Brennan grew up on his family’s dairy farm in Castlecomer, Co Kilkenny. He is now a teacher with an Education degree in Engineering.
Having always loved working with his hands, he started his own toy making company producing 3D-printed toys designed to calm and engage children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
In the run up to Christmas – the busiest time of year for both farmers and toy makers – Ella McSweeney spends the day with Adam to hear how his farming roots shaped his drive and creativity, and how those early lessons in problem-solving and care now fuel a growing business that’s helping families across Ireland.
Ear to the Ground is produced by indiepics for RTÉ.
