Controversial IFA proposals
IFA leaders insisted the proposals are not a "pick and choose" document, and must be accepted or defeated in their entirety. There is already strong opposition at ground level to sections, and almost unanimous rejection of the near full time "superman" role envisaged for county chairpersons.
There is also considerable debate and divided views over proposals to change the electoral structure by giving additional weight to the votes of the intensive dairy farming regions in the south, although IFA leader John Dillon said it would better reflect attendance and voting at branch meetings.
Giving double voting strength to women branch delegates at county level (in order to encourage greater participation of women in IFA) has also been rejected by some members.
Michael Dowling , the former general secretary of the Department of Agriculture, was commissioned by the IFA to seek submissions from county executives, branches and members, and to compile the organisational review and recommendations, which will be put to the National Council for approval in September.
The Limerick IFA Executive was the first county IFA group to discuss the controversial proposals. A number of reservations were expressed, before it was decided to adjourn until branches in the county had an opportunity to review the document and engage in the debate.
Additional duties are proposed for each of the 29 county chairpersons, who are also required to serve on National Council, and take on stronger leadership roles and responsibilities in their counties.
The one branch, one vote in elections of national officers would be replaced by up to four votes for larger branches, if the proposals are accepted.
The position of deputy president would be replaced by the four regional vice-presidents taking on additional responsibilities.
