Macra news: Challenge laid down to young farmers
Farmers in all enterprise categories — beef, sheep, dairy, tillage and other (pigs, poultry, horticulture) — are invited to apply.
The competition was launched by organisers Macra na Feirme, sponsors FBD and partners, and the IFA, with the help of the current FBD Young Farmer of the Year, Jonathan Marry, a pig farmer from Louth.
Macra national president Seán Finan said: “If you’re an ambitious young farmer with at least three years experience, you should enter and fly the flag for your enterprise.”
The aim is to recognise and reward the top young farmers in the country in all sectors.
Entrants are judged according to criteria including farm business initiative and innovation, levels of farm efficiency and enterprise quality, farm safety and environmental protection awareness, as well as agricultural knowledge and community involvement.
Young farmers can also be nominated.
Entrants will compete in each enterprise category in a bid to be crowned the winner in their category and be in the running to be named 2016 FBD Young Farmer of the Year.
As well as a €3,000 travel bursary for the overall winner, prizes will also be awarded to the top young farmer in each category.
A representative from each enterprise will be chosen in every county and will benefit from a targeted regional technical day for their sector.
There, they will develop their specific skills and compete against their counterparts from other counties.
“This is a wonderful competition and I would encourage all young farmers to enter the FBD Young Farmer of the Year competition as it provides young farmers with an invaluable experience and learning opportunity,” said Mr Finan.
“As a previous county winner, I found that participating in the competition offered a once-off chance to meet fellow young farmers, learn from their experiences, and to share knowledge with each other, but most importantly, identify ways to further grow and develop your farm business.”
FBD head of farm and business, Christy Doherty added: “FBD has been fostering the next generation of Irish farmers for over 45 years and we are delighted to continue our sponsorship of this showcase event now in its 18th year.
“This is an exciting time for young farmers as they strive to meet the increasing global demand for Irish produce. We expect to see the proof of this growth and development reflected in what will hopefully be a record number of excellent applicants.”
IFA national chairman Jer Bergin said: “I have no doubt that we have a huge reservoir of young farming talent in this country, which needs to be nurtured into the industry.
“For the future, a viable income will be very important to attract the calibre required to drive the sector forward. The next government will have to address this issue. My message to young farmers out there is to participate. Being involved has never been more important.”
Application forms are available from the Macra na Feirme national office on 01 4268900, from IFA or FBD offices, and for download on macra.ie.
The closing date for applications and nominations is April 8.
