Who we are
Two beekeepers founded the Irish Bee & Heritage Foundation to protect the Irish Black Bee through education, training and reform.
The founders
Gus McCoy
Co-founder · Advocacy & reform
A prominent advocate for reform within the Irish beekeeping community, Gus authored a significant report commissioned by the membership, highlighting the urgent need for transformation in beekeeping practices. Education remains his primary focus – he is devoted to building structured, high-quality training through the Foundation.
From the hivesGussie’s GoldClonlara, Co. Clare
Paul O’Brien
Co-founder · Education & standards
A staunch advocate for structured education, Paul’s contributions were crucial in introducing the Level 7 diploma to Irish beekeepers in collaboration with Dr. Grace McCormack of University of Galway. He aims to expand further by implementing QQI Level 5 and 6 qualifications for beekeepers nationwide.
From the hivesPaul’s HoneyRenville / Maree, Co. Galway
How we came together
The Irish Bee & Heritage Foundation grew from a shared frustration – and a shared conviction. Two beekeepers, each working independently within the Irish beekeeping community, kept arriving at the same conclusion: that without serious investment in education and structured reform, the Irish Black Bee’s future would be left to chance.
Gus and Paul came together not just around a species, but around a belief that real conservation begins with knowledge. That beekeepers equipped with proper training, qualifications and community are the most powerful force for protecting Ireland’s native pollinators. The Foundation is their answer to that belief – a dedicated home for education, advocacy and the long-term stewardship of a bee that belongs to this island.