Race for Irish Farmers' Association leadership hots up
The race to succeed Joe Healy as the next president of the IFA has opened up after Munster regional chairman John Coughlan announced his intention to run for the office in this year’s election.
Mr Coughlan, a dairy and beef farmer from Buttevant, Co Cork, and an IFA member for 25 years, said farming has always delivered for the Irish Exchequer.
Government initiatives like Harvest 2020, Foodwise 2025 and agricultural sustainability must start with farmer income.
Mr Coughlan outlined his priorities: These are restoration of farm income by returning prices higher than production costs; delivering CAP reform that secures a viable income for family farms; ensuring farmers do not carry the burden or costs of climate change measures; and the health and welfare of the farm family.
Other declared candidates are Livestock Committee chairman Angus Woods, Wicklow, National Treasurer Tim Cullinan, Tipperary and Rural Development chairman Joe Brady, Cavan.
