According to EU Commissioner for Agriculture Phil Hogan, the new Kilkenny Center for Digital Innovation can contribute to the digital transformation of Europe’s agri-food sector, stimulating innovation and growth in the region.

Speaking on Monday, May 20, at the opening of the Center for Excellence in Precision Agriculture (PACE) to be set up in Kilkenny, the European Commissioner said: “Precision agriculture has never been more important in an industry facing climate change challenges.” “degradation of ecosystems and the growth of the world’s population, as well as with the growing need to produce more using less.”

Using tools such as PACE, they are creating a network of digital innovation centers across Europe to accelerate digital transformation.

Commissioner Hogan described PACE as “excellent strategic fit” for the southeastern region, noting that agriculture accounts for 43% of total employment in the area.

PACE will serve agri-food enterprises, advisory services for farms, companies selling services and products for the agro-industrial complex, as well as new companies and rural enterprises, which can then be transformed into enterprises with a higher value.