We need a new vision for rural development

THE fact that agriculture and rural life were given such scant attention in the mainstream public debates that have taken place during the general election campaign is a statement in itself.

It is also a worrying reflection on a growing trend that appears to relegate what is in effect a €20 billion industry almost to the status of any other business in public discussions.

That’s not to say the sector was ignored by the political parties, because all of them published policies on farming, the food industry and rural development in general.