Mayo well represented at FG rural conference
FINE Gael members from Mayo and across Ireland attended a special delegate conference where agriculture and rural Ireland took centre stage.
The Fine Gael Agriculture, Food and Rural Development Forum AGM in Kildare saw strong Mayo representation, including executive members and delegates Martina Calvey and Tom Garvey, who joined public representatives and ministers from across Ireland, including Taoiseach Leo Varadkar.
The conference featured informative panels, Q&A sessions and addressed a broad spectrum of issues, including discssions on building stronger, safer communities, food security, farming and the next generation, as well as a session on how to ensure that rural Ireland continues to thrive.
The meeting was told EU Commissioner Sinkevicius is set to meet with the Taoiseach, the Minister for Agriculture and a delegation from the Irish agriculture sector on Thursday in relation to Ireland’s nitrates derogation.
Mayo delegates also discussed specific regional concerns, including issues faced by Achill farmers due to fire damage on commonage lands. Additionally, both delegates engaged with Eddie Downey, chair of the National Agriculture, Food, and Rural Development Forum, on a range of issues affecting Mayo farmers.
Martina Calvey highlighted the extensive engagement that took place between senior ministers, public representatives and party members. She said: “Tom and I found the day of great value to us as party activists. Members had the opportunity to discuss various issues as well as their role in an open, democratic and transparent party that values honest debate.”
Mayo involvement also included the important 'Role of the Member' session which was chaired by National Executive Council Chair and Castlebar native Willie Geraghty and included discussion on how members can become more involved and influential in the policies their party makes.
Newly ratified local election candidate for Claremorris, Alma Gallagher also spoke about her work in housing and retrofitting social housing which continues to be an issue for constituents across the county.
Commenting following the successful conference, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said: “Delivering for rural Ireland is one of my party’s priorities and central to that is ensuring that rural communities are vibrant places to live, work and raise a family.”
In summary, Ms. Calvey conveyed the energy and readiness of the party for next year's elections, stating: “One thing’s very clear: from the membership to ministers, this party is energised and ready for next year’s elections.”