ICSA president Sean McNamara has welcomed Minister McConalogue's proposal to establish a Commission on Generational Renewal for farming. “The Minister’s recognition of the challenges young farmers face and his intention to critically evaluate existing supports are steps in the right direction. However, this must be followed by tangible action if we are to secure the future of Irish farming,” he said.

"While the Minister has outlined the current range of supports, our members’ experiences show that these measures have not adequately addressed the fundamental issues preventing young people from entering and staying in agriculture. High land prices, limited access to credit, overregulation, and the uncertainty surrounding farm incomes remain significant barriers. There are also significant challenges related to succession planning and land transfers that need urgent attention. The stark reality is that without immediate and substantial interventions, many young people will continue to turn their backs on farming.”

Mr. McNamara said it is vital that any recommendations from the proposed Commission are practical and feasible to implement, and that they must be backed by sufficient funding and resources. “This new initiative must lead to meaningful change and cannot simply become yet another talking shop."

Mr. McNamara said ICSA will be seeking to ensure that farmer representatives, and particularly the voices of young farmers themselves, are at the forefront of this conversation. "They are the ones living the reality of these challenges, and their insights will be invaluable in shaping effective policy. It is vital that this Commission delivers concrete results, with a clear focus on removing the barriers that currently prevent young people from committing to a career in farming. The future of our agricultural sector and our rural communities depends on it.”