Fine Gael plans new partnership with Laois farmers

Fine Gael’s National Agricultural, Food, and Rural Development Forum (NAFRD) has a plan to create a new partnership with farmers in Laois and Offaly according to Fine Gael TD Charlie Flanagan.

In a statement, the Laois Offaly TD said that since its formation, NAFRD has held a series of public meetings with farmers, rural dwellers and agri-businesses around the country. At the Fine Gael Ard Fheis, Taoiseach Harris requested that NAFRD bring forward a report detailing a plan on how action could be taken on the feedback received.

“Fine Gael values the essential role farmers across Laois & Offaly play in our economy and our society," said Dep Flanagan.

“The agri-food sector employs over 170,000 people, making a hugely significant economic and social contribution to rural and coastal communities, including communities here in the Laois/Offaly constituency.

“There is a bright future for this sector. We must continue to work with the farming community to address the challenges ahead and this policy contains a number of significant recommendations and charts a pathway forward,” he said.

The Chairman of the Form is Eddie Downey who said agriculture is Ireland’s oldest and most important indigenous industry; its future must never be dominated by uncertainty or indifference.

“That is why this group was formed. Over the last two years, we have travelled the countryside canvassing the views of farmers, rural dwellers and business people. The report is a summary of the main issues raised at our meetings and a set of recommendations formulated by this forum,” he said

The report covers five main areas - the future of CAP, farm succession, a reform of land leasing, climate and environmental issues, and protecting rural life.

A statement from Dep Flanagan said it would be considered by Fine Gael in the formulation of future agricultural and rural policy.