Laois TDs pay tribute to IFA President Francie Gorman

Laois TDs expressed pride as they extended congratulations to Laois man and newly elected Irish Farmers’ Association President, Francie Gorman.  

Welcoming the news, Fianna Fail Minister of State, Sean Fleming, said he was proud to see a Laois man take up the prominent role. 

“I am delighted that a Laois man was elected to lead the largest representative body of farmers in Ireland, the IFA.”

“Francie is from Spink and has been involved in agriculture and the agricultural community all his life,” said Minister Fleming. 

“I have known Francie for many years and I know that his background and knowledge of farming and agriculture will help him be a great and effective leader of the IFA. Francie Gorman will be a very strong representative for farmers in his dealings with the Government and the EU authorities in relation to agriculture and rural affairs,” he remarked. 

“It is great to have someone from the Midlands elected to this position. I want to acknowledge the only other Laois man to hold the Presidency, Padraig Walshe (RIP), who travelled all over the country helping the farming community,” said Minister Fleming. 

“I am very proud that a Laois man has been elected to such a prominent position and I want to wish him and his family well in the times ahead,” he added. 

Fine Gael TD, Charlie Flanagan, described it as a “great honour” to have a Laois IFA President.  

“Francie has been an advocate for rural Ireland and farm families all his life. He seeks practical and common sense solutions to sometimes technical and complex issues. He is courageous and robust in his advocacy,” said Deputy Flanagan.  

“He is very friendly and approachable and will always be available for farmers. He is very much aware of the difficult challenges facing farmers with a potentially enlarged EU and climate change. I am confident he’ll be a great leader for the farming community,” he added.

Sinn Fein TD, Brian Stanley, noted the key role the Mr Gorman already played in farming. 

“Francie Gorman has been to the forefront of representing Laois farmers for many years. During that time he has ensured that the main issues impacting the farming sector have been highlighted and necessary policy changes were brought to the attention of politicians,” explained Deputy Stanley. 

Laois man set to take the reins as leader Irish famers

Francie Gorman declared IFA President

“He has played a key role to ensure there are vibrant and active IFA branches throughout Laois. I have met Francie many times over the years and he has always brought great clarity to what changes he seen that needed to be made in getting the farming sector ready for the coming decades. I am wishing him every success in his bid for IFA President,” Deputy Stanley said.