Survey on young farmers' attitudes launched in Roscrea

On behalf of FRS Network Minister Andrew Doyle, Minister of State for Food, Forestry and Horticulture, launched the ‘Attitudes of Young Farmers to Agricultural Co-operatives’ research at FRS Networks’ Head Office in Roscrea, recently. Survey showed that 94% of survey respondents considered that agricultural co-operatives were important for the ‘future of Irish farming.’

 

Attended by representatives from the co-operatives, agricultural organisations, boards and media the event offered each person a chance to hear first-hand the findings of the research conducted and presented by Dr Pat Bogue, Broadmore Research and Consultancy on behalf of FRS, which was supported by the Golden Jubilee Trust. The survey was completed by 655 young farmers through online and paper-based questionnaires.

 

Comments and reactions by guest speakers, Minister Doyle, Richard Kennedy, IFA, Thomas Duffy, Macra and Ray Dempsey, Central Auctions led to an open discussion on the topics surrounding the future role of co-operatives in Ireland.

 

Minister Doyle commented; “The report’s recommendations can pave the way in ensuring co-op’s continue to be successful long into the future. The research findings should be considered by co-operatives and reviewed in the context of their own situation.  Farmers need to be informed, advised and convinced about the importance of holding shares and getting actively involved in co-operatives.”

 

Thomas Duffy, President of Macra na Feirme told of his experience during this speech and said: “In my experience boards have been welcoming, but boards need to know that young people will challenge, if they see the need to, and they need to be ready to embrace this and be open to change.”