Tractorcade for Tullamore's main streets as farmers protest against CAP cuts

Tullamore town centre will be clogged with tractors this evening as farmers protest against proposed cuts to the European Union's Common Agriculture Policy (CAP).

The event is being organised by Offaly IFA and is part of series of nationwide events as part of the organisation's "No CAP Cuts' campaign.

The “No CAP Cuts” campaign is a coordinated campaign combining symbolic field messages, local rallies, and a high-profile Dublin event, aimed at stopping what the IFA calls “savage” CAP cuts and protecting farmers’ incomes.

Farmers are asked to assemble with their tractors in Tullamore Mart this evening, Wednesday, November 11 at 5,45pm.

They will set out on a tractorcade through the main streets of the county town at about 6pm.

The campaign is protesting against proposed 24% cuts to the EU’s CAP budget, timed with the informal EU Heads of State meeting in Dublin

In Laois, farmers including IFA President Francie Gorman formed a giant tractor-shaped “No CAP Cuts” sign at the Rock of Dunamaise .

In Monaghan, activists and local councillors protested at Lakeland Dairies, highlighting that farmers there face €7.8m annual losses from 2028

IFA President Francie Gorman said the cuts are “totally unacceptable” and that CAP funding is a matter for EU Heads of State in Dublin this week

He said they will have a “detrimental effect” on rural communities, with significant financial losses for farmers across Ireland

The IFA will host a CAP Rally in Dublin’s Clayton Hotel attended by COPA/COGECA leaders, alongside other EU farming representatives on Friday.

The IFA is also urging farmers to visit the IFA CAP Hub at ifa.ie/cap for details on the proposed cuts and how to engage with representatives

The actions coincide with Ireland’s EU presidency and the EU Heads of State meeting, giving the IFA a high-profile platform to push its message directly to decision-makers