Economist Lucey to retire

THE chief economist of the Irish Farmers Association, Con Lucey, who is to retire in May, was the recipient of a special tribute by Minister Mary Coughlan at the IFA annual general meeting.

She said Mr Lucey, who has served with 10 IFA presidents, from TJ Maher to Padraig Walshe over his 35 years with the association, should be very proud of the contribution he has made to Irish agriculture.

“Most particularly he is held in the highest regard in my own department, and I can say that without a doubt, and also in the Department of Finance,” she said.

Minister Coughlan wished Mr Lucey, a native of Ballynacally, Co Clare, who represents the IFA on the National Economic and Social Council, and on a number of other bodies and working groups, a long and happy retirement.