Deane still likely to face rivals in election race

NO opposition has yet emerged to former IFA National Livestock Chairman Derek Deane in his bid to become deputy president of the association.

However, the possibility of the next Number Two in the IFA hierarchy being elected without a contest is thought to be remote, as there are potential candidates in the south and west, who have yet to make the decision to allow their names to go forward.

Outgoing Munster vice-president, Donal Kelly, West Cork, has long been expected to contest the deputy leadership after a successful four years in his current position. He has said he will make a decision over the coming weeks. "I have been encouraged by the offers of support for the campaign which I have received and I believe that I still have a lot of work to do for farmers through the IFA," said Mr Kelly.