Competition begins to find the 2016 FBD Young Farmer of the Year
Prizes will also be awarded for the top young beef, sheep, dairy, tillage as well as other (pigs, poultry, horticulture) category farmers.
Entrants will compete against other farmers in their enterprise category and be in the running for the overall award. The closing date for entries is April 8.
The competition is being organised by Macra na Feirme and the Irish Farmers Association with the help of the current title holder, Jonathan Marry, a Co Louth pig farmer.
Competition entrants will be judged according to a number of 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 will be also taken into account.
Macra president Seán Finan said that the competition will provide young farmers with an experience and learning opportunity, while they will also identify ways to further develop their business.
FBD head of farm and business, Christy Doherty, said that this is an exciting time for young farmers in Ireland as they strive to meet the increasing global demand for produce.
“We expect to see the proof of this growth and development reflected in what will hopefully be a record number of excellent applicants,” he said.
IFA chairman Jer Bergin said there is a reservoir of young farming talent in Ireland, which must be nurtured into the industry.
“For the future of Irish farming, a viable income will be extremely important to attract the calibre required to drive the sector forward,” said Mr Bergin.
“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,” he said.
