Three candidates to run for IFA presidency

Three candidates are to run for president of the Irish Farmers' Association, it was confirmed this evening.

It follows the resignation of former IFA president Eddie Downey last year, after revelations that the former General Secretary received a €2m package over two years.

Each of the candidates has the required number of nominations, one from their own County Executive and five from other County Executives.

IFA Livestock chairman Henry Burns was nominated by Laois, Wexford, Kildare, Offaly, Kilkenny and Wicklow.

IFA Farm Business Galway rep Joe Healy was nominated by Galway, Mayo, Roscommon, Sligo, Leitrim and Donegal.

IFA Rural Development Chairman Flor McCarthy was nominated by Kerry, Clare, Waterford, Tipperary South, Louth and Meath.

Tim O’Leary and Derek Deane were also hoping to contest the race, but both fell one nomination short of the required six.

The election will be held in April.