Macra is renewing its calls on the government to increase supports available to young farmers, ahead of next week’s budget.
Over the past number of weeks, representatives from the 10,000 strong organisation for rural youth and young farmers have lobbied their elected officials to recognise the plight of young farmers in the new budget.
Macra’s president, Elaine Houlihan, also met with Taoiseach, Simon Harris, to discuss the challenges facing the community and to present possible solutions to the issues at hand.
“This year’s budget needs to deliver for the farming communities of Ireland, it’s now more than ever that we need to see the government back agriculture.
“Our asks are simple, we need action now for succession, we need to see a succession scheme to aid the transition of farms throughout Ireland, to ensure there is a next generation of farmers,” Houlihan said.
According to Teagasc’ Farm Survey for 2023, the average age of farmers in Ireland is 58, with a third of all farm holders aged over 65 years, compared to just a fifth in 1991.
Whereas only 6.9% of farmers in Ireland are under 35-years-old according to CSO figures reported in Macra’s pre-budget submission, highlighting the lack of generational renewal in the ageing farming profession.
Macra is urging the government to support the succession of farm businesses and the diversification of farms by making it easier for younger farmers to access land and finance which will in turn promote rural regeneration.
Macra also highlighted the growing prevalence of mental health issues amongst farmers in its ‘Make the Moove’ initiative, which offers subsidised counselling, a crisis response team and mental health awareness talks.
The initiative is partnering with UCD Agri Mental Health group to provide further training for the service providers, which Houlihan is seeking more funding for in order to continue to serve the rural community.
“Make the Moove needs funding more then ever right now, we are currently running at capacity, and it is vital we get funding to continue the work that we are currently undertaking helping farmers and rural dwellers in Ireland.
“Over the past number of months, we have seen the conversation grow regarding farmers mental health in Ireland, so why not back and support an initiative that’s already working to help meet the needs in our society.
“Succession and mental health go hand in hand in some situations so it is now time our ministers and government listen to the next generation and back our asks, as someone once backed them,” Houlihan said.
Macra’s pre-budget submission proposals;
- Start-up capital grants for rural businesses of €10,000;
- Dedicated supported for rural entrepreneurship and rural SMEs which focus on the environment, circular economy and social innovation;
- Review of the role of women in farming, and the gender specific obstacles to farm succession experienced by women;
- Investment in community hubs in rural areas;
- Funding for street lighting and footpaths in rural towns to reduce crime.