Young farmers told not to follow parents sheep-like onto land
Mike Brady, managing director of the Cork-based Brady Group, said the surge of interest in agriculture courses had seen many of Ireland’s core agriculture courses soar towards 500 points, but he questions whether or not the sector can create the jobs to match this surge.
“We are in a fashion cycle,” said Mr Brady, a former president of the Agricultural Consultants’ Association. “A few years ago, the sons of farmers were all studying engineering and becoming building contractors; now they are all heading back onto the farm. But what work will they be going into in five years’ time? Agriculture or building? Career guidance counsellors and farming parents need to take a reality check, and let these young people follow their own path.
