Laois farmer Francie Gorman to contest IFA Presidential election 

Francie Gorman has declared his intention to run for President of the Irish Farmers Association (IFA). 

The beef and sheep farmer from Raggetstown, Ballinakill is the first candidate to enter the field in an election that will take place later this year. 

A former Chairman and Secretary of Laois IFA, he has been involved with IFA for the past 25-years and has been a vociferous advocate for farmers.

Francie is currently the IFA South Leinster Regional Chairman, a position he has held for the past three years and whose term is up late this year. 

He was proposed by his local Ballinakill branch at a meeting of the Laois IFA county executive last night, Tuesday, June 6. 

He now has to secure the support of another five IFA county executives to get his name on the ballot paper. 

Married to Kay, the couple have one son, Tom. 

Francie told the Leinster Express his decision to enter the race was one he had not taken lightly. He said he probably would have declared sooner had he not broken his leg last December. 

As to the shape of a future presidency, he stressed the need for unity amongst farmers. 

"IFA's biggest power is our members. No matter whether you are dairy or beef, east or west, we need unity and to speak with one voice. This is particularly crucial given the challenges we face in areas like environmental issues. 

"Communications is also extremely important and communicating our message to people on the ground."

Francie will be hoping to emulate the success of the late Padraig Walshe, who served as IFA President from 2006 to 2010. 

Previous Laois candidates for the IFA Presidency have included Mountmellick’s Henry Burns and Ballacolla’s Jer Bergin.