The count took place in the Irish Farm Centre in Dublin on Tuesday and Healy saw off his opponent Odile Evans on a result of 91 votes to 60.

Speaking immediately after the count, Healy said he is looking forward “to drive Macra forward” over the two-year period of his term.

He thanked Evans for the “hard-fought” campaign between the two. Healy will take up the role from May.

Outgoing president Seán Finan thanked both candidates for their efforts over the course of the campaign and wished Healy well as president.

Stay tuned to www.farmersjournal.ie for more from the election count.