Welcome to IFA Countryside
Promoting and protecting the rural way of life Request to JoinMerchandise ShopWhy 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.
HCAP Course
Become certified to hunt deer. Just €130 to IFA Countryside members.

Safe Handling of Wild Game Meat Course
€175 to IFA countryside members. Next course date Autumn 2026

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

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.

Applied Fundamentals of Rifle Shooting and Practical Rifle Training
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!
Ready to Join?
Start your membership journey with our Request to Join Form
Latest News
Find out the latest rural news and updates
Convictions, fines and boat forfeiture for illegal fishing in Dundalk
Two men in Dundalk have been convicted of illegally killing pike and have been ordered to pay fines following prosecutions taken by Inland Fisheries Ireland. Inland Fisheries Ireland Officers, who had been on routine fisheries patrol in the area, outlined the facts of...
Over €800,000 in funding for community gardens, outdoor spaces and allotments announced
Some 25 projects nationwide to be funded under 2021 CLÁR Programme Projects include community and sensory gardens, outdoor spaces and allotments in rural towns and villages Minister for Rural and Community Development, Heather Humphreys TD, has announced €810,000 in...
Minister of State for Heritage welcomes dialogue on sustainable hunting of birds of conservation concern
As the Open Seasons Order allowing the hunting of birds begins on September 1st Minister of State for Heritage at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage Malcolm Noonan has issued the following statement: “Biodiversity in Ireland (as it is globally),...




