The lie of the land: early retirement too abrupt for some

THE Early Retirement Scheme for farmers was an EU initiative to streamline farming and make it more efficient.

Farmers have a strong attachment to the job. They linger on, working into old age, delaying or denying entry of the next generation into the family business.

Traditionally, handing over the reins was gradual, and the patriarch was around, overseeing, advising on day-to-day matters.