Welcome to IFA Countryside

Promoting and protecting the rural way of life
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Why Join IFA Countryside

Representation

We are committed to effective representation on issues which affect our countryside members

Peace of Mind

Our membership comes with insurance you can rely on

Exclusive Benefits

We deliver genuine savings to our members

Training

Access to a wide range of subsidised training courses

Training Courses

At IFA Countryside, we recognise that education and training are essential to maintaining the highest standards in countryside pursuits. Whether it’s firearm safety, responsible hunting, or practical field skills, proper training ensures that participants develop confidence, competence, and respect for best practices. Our courses are designed to equip members with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to engage in their activities safely, ethically, and effectively—preserving traditions while upholding modern safety and environmental standards.

These subsidised training courses are an exclusive benefit of IFA Countryside membership. To take part, you must be a member. If you’re not already, you can join here to access these and other membership benefits.

If you would like to make an enquiry on any of these courses, please click here.

advanced rifle course date

HCAP Course

Become certified to hunt deer. Just €130 to IFA Countryside members.

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Safe Handling of Wild Game Meat Course

€175 to IFA countryside members. Next course date Autumn 2026

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Introduction to Beekeeping

This 6-week online course introduces the role of honeybees, beekeeping theory and pollinator knowledge, delivered through weekly online sessions.

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firearm proficiency date

Firearm Proficiency Course (Level 1)

The most comprehensive of its kind covering 3- in-one. Only €99 to IFA Countryside Members.  New date coming soon.

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Applied Fundamentals of Rifle Shooting and Practical Rifle Training

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What People Say About Us

We know our membership is second to none but don’t just take our word for it. Check out what some of our members have to say about us.

“As a gun club we are very happy with the level of policy cover from IFA Countryside and also the great support from their team. IFA Countryside have always provided support for our various projects such as game restocking and heather management and we look forward to continuing to work with them on the protection and development of our sport.“

Brendan Magill – Hon Secretary ABGN Gun Club

 

Peace of MInd

“Great organisation with a solid basis from within the rural community. Great friendly and competent service from staff. The insurance cover provides peace of mind for hunters and the fantastic packages available an added bonus. Long may IFA continue with success. Thank you, Owen”

Owen Mulcahy – Irish Working Terrier Federation

Uncomplicated Renewal

“Uncomplicated renewal and excellent communication in all aspects of information to make our jobs easier.”

Enda O’Donoghue – Glengoole Gun Club

Supportive of all our club activities

“The IFA have always been a pleasure to deal with at every level. Insurance renewal is a seamless process and advice is available at any stage at the end of the phone. The IFA provide subsidised rates on pheasants and on feed and are supportive of all our club activities. Our club has found them helpful on a number of local and national policy issues and advice and aid was always given promptly, clearly and effectively.”

Robert O’Keeffe – Golden Kilfeacle Gun Club

Staff who understand country sports

“Amazing, totally geared to the lover of country pursuits. With a staff who understand country sports and country people.”

 

Patrick O’Donoghue – Kerry Beagles Association

Convenient and Accommodating

“Insuring with IFA Countryside is very convenient, the staff are so accommodating. I think landowners/farmers are a lot more confident with the insurance from IFA than any other source.”

Robert O’Shea – Kilmacow Gun Club

Promoting our way of life

“IFA Countryside is very comparable with our gun club who are promoting our way of life and understand the difficulties facing our sport and all country pursuits in general. They lobby for us at government level.”

Seamus Butler – Glen Gun Club

Excellent Service

“Providing regular updates on current countryside topics and excellent service.”

Pat O’Hara – Wimbletown Gun Club

You love the countryside and so do we.

And that’s why we’re here to look after you every step of the way.

If you enjoy country sports or field sports activities like shooting, fishing and walking, then IFA Countryside Membership is for you.

We support the outdoor activities you love by providing an exclusive membership package which includes an IFA Countryside Members Insurance Policy.

Our insurance partner is FBD Insurance; the only Irish owned insurance company in Ireland, providing you with peace of mind while you enjoy the Irish countryside.

We are proud to represent our members’ interests on issues which affect them so they can safeguard the future of fieldsports in Ireland!

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Ready to Join?

Start your membership journey with our Request to Join Form

Request to Join

Latest News

Find out the latest rural news and updates

Carbon Budget Will Have Serious Impact on Rural Economy

Carbon Budget Will Have Serious Impact on Rural Economy

Oct 28, 2021

IFA President Tim Cullinan said the carbon budget staging announced by the Climate Change Advisory Council  and the sectoral emissions ceilings reported, will have serious repercussions for farming. “Our most productive farmers simply cannot remain viable if...

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World Habitat Day – Managing Hedgerows to Protect Habitats

World Habitat Day – Managing Hedgerows to Protect Habitats

Oct 5, 2021

IFA Environment & Rural Affairs Chairman and Smart Farming’s Programme Leader, Paul O’Brien said that while hedgerow cutting is now permitted to the end of February, farmers should be aware that hedges provide food and shelter and habitats for wildlife and birds...

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