INHFA push minister for money towards 'Forgotten Farmer Group'

THE annual general meeting of the Irish Natura & Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) in Tuam saw renewed calls for support in the upcoming budget for the ‘Forgotten Farmer Group’

This call came from the floor on the day of the meeting and was led by a founding member of the Forgotten Farmer Group, Kenneth O'Brien. In a Q&A session with Minister Charlie McConalogue, who attended the meeting, there was considerable support for this proposal in addition to improved supports for young farmers from the 100 delegates.

INHFA president Vincent Roddy also pushed the minister in his closing address, stating: “There is a group of farmers that are may be no longer too young but have shown a major commitment to farming - despite being left behind with regard to previous CAP support. I am referring to the Forgotten Farmer Group and in our budget submission we have sought funding of €20m. to help right this wrong. This is the time that this group have their concerns addressed.”

The INHFA leader also detailed the need to consider a Farm Retirement Scheme as part of succession planning, stating: “We need to look at how we can encourage senior farmers to consider transferring their land. With this in mind it is time to look again at a Farm Retirement Scheme.”

Mr. Roddy also called for improved support delivering €30/ewe under a revamped Sheep Improvement Scheme and a suckler cow payment of €200/cow. This payment, he said, should follow on from the existing suckler welfare scheme that pays €50/cow and will finish up next summer.

The meeting saw the election of Richard Mannion from Mayo as national secretary. He will replace Sharon Cosgrove who has served in the role for the last four years.

National treasurer Liam Lavelle was re-elected to his role. The two vice-presidents, John Joe Fitzgerald and Micheal McDonnell, with president Vincent Roddy are serving a two-year term that runs until the 2025 AGM, while the position of national chair, currently held by Pheilim Molloy, will be decided on at the organisation's next national council meeting this August.