Tom Doyle is the new chair of the Irish Farmers' Association (IFA) in Co. Wexford following his election last night (Monday, February 10).

The beef and tillage farmer from Camolin, near Gorey, was the sole candidate for the position at the annual general meeting (AGM) of the county executive.

Tom who previously served as chair of the IFA National Farm Business Committee is the husband of current IFA deputy president, Alice Doyle.

Speaking to Agriland, Tom Doyle said that he had taken on the position of Wexford IFA chair after being approached by a number of members.

He said that he will aim to do the best he can for farmers across the county.

Among his priorities for his term is to ensure that the over-regulation in farming is addressed and that farmers are respected.

Doyle said that where new regulations are required, there should be "realistic timeframes" for farmers to adapt to changes. He added that "sudden and dramatic changes" are frustrating for farmers.

"When it comes to environmental regulations, these must recognise the importance of farmers as food producers. Our role is very important.

"Farmers understand the environment and the countryside probably a lot better than some of those dictating to us how to run our lives," he said.

Another focus for Doyle will be to ensure "active participation" in the association by staying in regular contact with members through the association's branch structure.

The Wexford IFA chair stressed the importance of young people taking up roles in the farm organisation.

The outgoing Wexford IFA chair Jer O'Mahony, who had come to the end of his four-year term, wished Tom Doyle all the very best as he takes over the position.

O'Mahony, who hails from Wellingtonbridge, said that he "loved" his time as Wexford IFA chair and "will miss it" as it becomes "engrained in you".

The outgoing chair told last night's AGM that during his tenure he sent 30,000 texts, 10,000 emails and made up to 5,000 calls. In addition, O'Mahony estimated he attended some 1,600 meetings during the period.

O'Mahony told Agriland that reaching agreement with Wexford County Council on farm inspection protocols which ensured that "respect for farmers was central to the process" was among his biggest achievements.

He also helped to secure compensation for growers whose crops were destroyed by torrential rain during Christmas 2021.

O'Mahony will continue to play an active role in Wexford IFA holding the positions of treasurer and PRO.