Cowen tribute to farm chief

TAOISEACH Brian Cowen has described the contribution of Michael Berkery as general secretary of the Irish Farmers Association as outstanding.

Mr Cowen was addressing the IFA annual general meeting dinner in Dublin, the last to be attended by Mr Berkery as general secretary before his retirement.

The Taoiseach said the Tipperary man, who joined the IFA in 1978, has been one of the most influential figures in farming, both at national and European level.

He has worked with eight IFA presidents, starting with Donie Cashman, followed by Joe Rea, Tom Clinton, Alan Gillis, John Donnelly, Tom Parlon and John Dillon, up to the Padraig Walshe, as well as seven ministers for agriculture.

“And, as only the third person to hold the position of general secretary in the history of the association, Michael has been involved in most, if not all, the major negotiations affecting Irish agriculture over the past 25 years,” he said.

The Taoiseach said Mr Berkery played a leading role on behalf of the IFA in the first social partnership negotiations back in 1987, and has been a major contributor to this process right up to the discussions currently under way.

“Through social partnership, and the many other issues that he has been involved with over the years, Michael has been a highly proactive and effective advocate for the Irish farmer, and has contributed greatly to the strength of Irish agriculture,” he said.

The Taoiseach also congratulated Michael’s successor, Pat Smith, and wished him well.

IFA president Padraig Walshe told delegates that Mr Berkery has been an outstanding chief executive, guiding the association in all of its great campaigns over the past 25 years of his leadership.

“One of Michael’s most important legacies was to build a first-rate executive staff team of exceptional dedication and professionalism, that is not surpassed anywhere in Irish agriculture.

“Pat Smith takes over as our chief executive on March 30. He has huge drive and determination to deliver results for Irish farmers. I know he will hit the ground running and he has the best wishes and full support of the entire organisation and staff,” he said.