New Longford IFA Chairperson says lobbying crucial as there is a lot of uncertainty in farming

The Longford branch of the Irish Farmers Association elected a new chairman at the group's AGM recently held in the Rustic Inn in Abbeyshrule. Ballinalee man John Sheridan takes up the helm of the farmers representative organisation.

John was elected to the role in replacement of outgoing chair Gavin White, who held the post for the last four years.

The new chair is tasked with the role of being the chief spokesperson for local farmers in their county: “The only goal is to look after each section of the IFA and the wider farming community,” John told the Leader of his ambitions for the office, “Everybody has to be looked after.
“If they are farmers who are farming we have to represent them. It doesn't matter if they are growing carrots or raising beef, the IFA are there to represent them.”
John says the local IFA organisation is in a good place, but acknowledged that more can be done: “There is good engagement, but there is work to be done. Over Covid people did not engage, and it has been difficult to attract them back.

“We would like to see the younger generations become more involved, because the strength of the organisation is dependent on our members.”

The Edgeworthstown farmer believes the Department of Agriculture and the Government are not providing adequate support to farmers: “There is a lot of uncertainty in farming at the moment. Lobbying for support is crucial, and the IFA is the best way to do that, at both local and national level.”

John commended the outgoing chair Gavin White: “Gavin had a very good term. He had to deal with the Covid restrictions and did so very well. He co-ordinated bringing meetings out to farms, which were very well attended. He leaves big boots to fill.”

The AGM also acknowledged the contribution of long standing members. Andy Keegan received honorary life membership for his support over the years in the IFA, while Trevor McHugh received the JJ Farrell cup for his contribution to Longford IFA.

Trevor hosted hound driver training in his premises over the years and offered tractors and machines to train the next generation of farmers.
At the AGM Gavin was presented with a memento from regional chair Frank Brady, while his wife Trisha was given a beautiful bouquet of flowers for holding the fort when the outgoing Chair was away at meetings.