First and foremost, I would like to point out that Macra na Feírme is open to all people…of all backgrounds.
That’s what makes it such a good organisation to join for young people. However, it is also an organisation that is tasked with representing young farmers. I believe that it has not always done so in recent years – at a time when young farmers needed solid representation.
Take, for example, the recent beef protests that took place last year. The organisation initially distanced itself from the protests without – I believe – consulting its grass-roots members.
‘Jumped at the chance…’
When the opportunity to enter talks came, the organisation jumped at the chance to partake [in the talks]. Some counties and clubs then decided to troop out and join the action on the picket lines – during the second wave of protests – on their own initiative.
I am writing this letter not to attack Macra na Feírme – because it does great work around the country – but to highlight how I feel it is not supporting some of our young farmers.
I feel that this lobby group, for the farmers of tomorrow, has lost some of its voice and its vigour – in favour of a more conservative approach.
From a reader; the writer wishes to remain anonymous