The announcement of 20 extra Teagasc teaching posts has been described as “excellent news for the next generation of young farmers”.
Reacting to the news earlier today (Friday, February 26), Macra na Feirme said it welcomes the announcement that the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has secured approval for 20 additional full time two-year contract teaching posts for Teagasc to support Green Certificate education.
Commenting, Macra na Feirme national president Thomas Duffy said:
Education of young farmers is one of the reasons Ireland is a world leader in agriculture.
“The ongoing dedication to agricultural education by the Department of Agriculture is excellent news for the next generation of young farmers,” he added.
The young farmer organisation described the move as an “important commitment” made by the Department of Agriculture which “shows support for the future of young farmers” in Ireland.
Stressing that it is vital that young farmers have access to good quality education which is adequately staffed, the rural youth association said:
“This announcement can only but improve the quality of education provided by Teagasc.”
Announced by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue earlier today, it was noted that the extra posts will be earmarked in particular for the northwest and northeast of the country.