Homelessness crisis - Old problem needs new ideas

The IFA has proposed a “drought action plan”. The lobby wants the Government to facilitate everything from low-cost loans and a waiver from the Nitrates Directive to taxpayers paying for sheep-tagging.

It is undeniable that the sector is — like many others — facing enormous challenges. However, our political culture and our tradition of regarding farming in a particularly romantic light will ensure that most of the IFA’s demands will be met. This will reconfirm the social priority we give to property rights.