Macra has confirmed that Taoiseach Micheál Martin will attend its national conference this weekend in Co. Limerick.

The conference, which is part of Macra's wider National Rally, will take place on Saturday (October 24) at Fitzgerald's Woodlands Hotel near Adare.

The event, which is themed "Staking Our Claim - Securing the Future of Farming and Rural Ireland" will focus on two key topics: the future of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) and generational renewal.

Macra has said that the Taoiseach will deliver the keynote address at the conference.

Speaking ahead of his appearance at the conference, the Taoiseach said: "I’m delighted to be attending Macra’s national conference and to be meeting young farmers and young people from across rural Ireland.

"This conference is a welcome opportunity to engage with those playing an important role in the future of Irish agriculture and the sustainability of rural communities," he added.

"It is vital that we support the next generation to enter farming, develop viable businesses and build their futures in rural Ireland," the Taoiseach said.

Speaking about the Taoiseach's involvement in the conference, Macra president Josephine O'Neill said: "I am delighted to welcome the Taoiseach Micheál Martin to Macra's national conference this year in Limerick.

"As discussions well centre around ensuring a future for young farmers and rural young people, I look forward to the Taoiseach hearing first-hand the challenges faced, and the support needed to ensure that our government will make the necessary commitments to secure our future," O'Neill added.

'Meaningful financial commitments'

With negotiations on the CAP intensifying at EU level, Macra is calling for "meaningful financial commitments" to support the next generation of farmers.

Rising costs; access to land and finance; and farm viability "remain significant barriers" for young people seeking to enter or develop a career in agriculture, Macra said.

"Generational renewal must move beyond political ambition and be backed by targeted supports that give young farmers the confidence and opportunity to build sustainable businesses," according to the farm organisation.

This weekend's conference will feature two panel discussions on agricultural and rural development policy.

The conference is set to get underway at 2:00p.m on Saturday.