A delegation of farmers from across Ireland travelled to Brussels to attend the European People’s Party (EPP) European Congress of Young Farmers and contribute to the future of EU agricultural policy.
The group, hosted by MEP Maria Walsh, will attend the EPP European Congress of Young Farmers, taking place in Brussels today. The Congress brings together 400 young farmers and policymakers from across the EU. Maria Walsh, who is an MEP Ambassador for the Congress, will also address the conference.
The number of farmers in the European Union has dropped by nearly 30% since 2005 and the number of young farmers (under 44 years old) by over 30%, from 3.3 million in 2005 to 2.3 million in 2017.
MEP Walsh, member of the European Parliament’s Agriculture Committee, said:
“I’m delighted to welcome a group of pioneering young farmers from across Ireland to Brussels, to have their say in the direction of EU agricultural policy. Given these policies will dictate their future livelihoods, it is only right that their voices are heard at the decision-making table.
“Priorities for young Irish farmers, many hailing from small farms, can differ quite significantly from those of their EU counterparts. It’s therefore even more important to see the Irish agricultural sector represented at this level.
“Topics up for discussion include generational renewal, importance of water sustainability, reform of the CAP and even farmer-influencer marketing. I also hope to see the issue of mental health being discussed given its particular impact on our young farmers.
“The agricultural sector is heavily reliant on an ageing and diminishing population. More than 31% of farms in the EU are run by farmers over the age of 65, while young farmers account for only 6%.
“Farming can often be a lonely and isolated job, making forums such as this all the more important. Today’s delegates will share best practices, discuss trade opportunities and explore potential for collaboration. Contentious issues for the agricultural sector will also be discussed, with the Mercosur trade deal likely to be at the top of that list. I will continue to be steadfast in my support for Irish farmers throughout these issues.”
