Need to promote family farming is crucial

Maintaining vibrant agriculture and preserving the family farm model is of critical importance to this country’s future, President Michael D Higgins declared yesterday.

“It is a vital necessity if we want to ensure that no portion of our national territory is left neglected – economically, socially or environmentally. It is a vital necessity if we want an Ireland of thriving local communities.

“And it is a vital necessity if we want to continue to eat good food, and sustain a living and rich relationship with our natural environment,” he said.