Burke to host meeting on the future of farming
Local minister, Peter Burke, is keen to hear the views of farmers and is hosting a meeting for them with IFA president, Tim Cullinane, and Minister of State for Agricultural Martin Heydon, next week.
Minister Burke, who is from a farming background, said he has not had as much opportunity as usual to engage with local farmers since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, and it was timely to get their views.
He as arranged a public meeting, to be held next Monday, May 17, at 8pm, to discuss the future of farming and all matters relating to agriculture. All farmers and those involved in agriculture and food production are welcome to attend.
Deputy Burke, Minister of State at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, is organising the meeting via Zoom.
He said: “Coming from a farming background and still farming with my father outside of Mullingar, an important issue and priority for me is the promotion and protection of agriculture.
“Farmers have faced many challenges in recent times, not least of which is Brexit, and I want to hear the views of local farmers on the future of farming and how the government can best work to support farmers. I know I hope to continue farming like my father has, and hopefully in the future pass this on to my sons.
“We are all missing meeting and chatting at the marts or at various sales and I know I have not been in touch with as many farmers as I would normally through the course of my work, as a lot has gone online.
“As the restrictions are eased, I am looking forward to getting back out meeting more people again, as I believe online is no substitute for being out and about and chatting to people on the ground.
“Agriculture generates over €13 billion for the Irish economy and is the bedrock of rural Ireland when it comes to employment and community. We have seen the volatility in the beef market in recent years, as well as fodder shortages, market changes and challenges posed by climate change and policies aimed at reducing our omissions.
“My colleague Martin Heydon will also be addressing the meeting, and he can advise on all matters relating to the Department of Agriculture regarding new schemes and the new transitional CAP measures which are currently being put in place. As Minister for Farm Safety and as a farmer himself, Martin has a unique take on how we can shape agriculture into the future.
“I have also invited president of the IFA, Tim Cullinane, to address the meeting. Tim will know the concerns of his members and will be highlighting both the issues and the opportunities that face the sector at present.