Take on board the views of farm contractors, briefing told

Farm contractors’ views on issues such as rural employment, the black economy and road safety should feature in rural development programmes, two industry groups said at a European Parliament briefing in Brussels yesterday.

Members of the European Organisation of Agricultural and Rural Contractors and of Farm Contractors Ireland said their sector plays a key role in the agri-sector by providing services to farmers across the range of farm enterprises including forestry and also providing services to local authorities in managing public green spaces.

MEP Máiréad McGuinness, who hosted the briefing, said: “Farm Contractors Ireland made a strong case for more active engagement in the implementation of the rural development programme in Ireland, pointing out the potential for job creation.