Young Irish farmers: An endangered species

Only 4.3% of Irish farmers are below the age of 35, and current trends are seeing a further decline

Agriculture minister Martin Heydon speaking to the press on the second day at the 2025 National Ploughing Championships in Screggan, Co Offaly. Picture: Dan Linehan

The alarm has been sounded on the decline of young farmers across Ireland by Macra national president Josephine O’Neill.

“Looking at the statistics, 4.3% of farmers are under the age of 35 — our young farmers are an endangered species. We need support, we need action, and we need a commitment so that our young farmers have certainty and have a future,” Ms O’Neil told the Irish Examiner.