There has been a clear and disturbing policy shift when it comes to young farmers in this country. That's according to former Macra president and Cavan native Thomas Duffy who joined colleagues outside Leinster House today.
Members walked from Athy to Dublin in an effort to highlight the plight of young people living in rural Ireland to the powers that be. Speaking to Northern Sound, Mr Duffy highlighted how policy changes have limited farmers instead of enabling them.
He added that a succession inheritance scheme is also needed to encourage young people into the farming industry - many of whom are now leaving these shores for pastures new. "In terms of young farmers there has been a very clear policy shift; and a very disturbing policy shift.
"When I was Macra president, there was a very clear support for young farmers and a very clear support for the expansion of the national farming activities. And, all of that really helped to drive us and support the economy.
"Now, all of that has shifted. Obviously we want climate action and we want biodiversity, and water quality issues to be addressed. But we need to do all of that in a way that enables young farmers not talking about limitations.
