The IFA will hold regional rallies in four counties this Friday (October 8th, 2021).
The events will highlight how the current government is pursuing a path that will “wipe out Ireland’s largest indigenous sector”.
IFA regional rallies
IFA president, Tim Cullinan, will lead the rallies at the following locations:
- Cavan (7.30 am);
- Roscommon (12.30 pm);
- Portlaoise (5.30 pm);
- Cork City (8.30 pm).
The farm leader said: “For the last two years, IFA has tried to engage with government on the sector’s future.”
“Despite this, it continues to treat us as low-hanging fruit that it can target without impunity.”
“At the same time, it is rolling out the red carpet for energy-guzzling multinationals and allowing food, peat, and timber to be imported from less efficient countries in Europe and further afield.”
“IFA will not allow farmers to be sacrificial lambs so the government can give the appearance of doing the right thing.”
He said the farm group is sounding an alarm. Cullinan believes that without proper negotiation with farmers and a coherent plan, farming and food production in this country will be unrecognisable.
“We want the government to get serious and sit down to develop a workable farm-level plan,” concluded the IFA president.”
Hedge-rows
Meanwhile, the IFA has reminded farmers of the importance of managing hedgerows to protect habitats.
IFA environment & rural affairs chairman, Paul O’Brien, said that while hedgerow cutting is now permitted to the end of February, farmers should be aware that hedges provide food and shelter and habitats for wildlife and birds throughout the winter months.
“Ideally, we should do as little as possible with our hedgerows. Allow them to grow upwards and outwards,” he said.
“If hedges are starting to spread too far into fields, trim the sides to keep them under control.”
“It is recommended to only cut one-third of hedges each year to benefit the environment as much as possible,” he added.
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