The nomination process for Macra na Feirme’s presidential and vice-presidential candidates has now closed and the election candidates have been announced. Every two years, Macra clubs elect a new national president and three vice-presidents to represent the young farmers and rural youth organisation.

Candidates for national president

  • Odile Evans, Plattenstown, Arklow, Co Wicklow.
  • James Healy, Kilmartin, Donoughmore, Co Cork.

    • Leinster vice-president candidate

  • Cara O’Mahony, Mountain View, Naas, Co Kildare.

    • Munster vice-president candidate

  • Tom O’Donoghue, Crowhill Upper, Cappoquin, Co Waterford.

    • Northwest vice-president candidates

  • Sharon Corcoran, Rathkelly Close, Ballinrobe, Co Mayo.
  • Brendan Curran, Gorvagh, Mohill, Co Leitrim.

    • The election will take place in the Irish Farm Centre in Dublin on Tuesday 4 April and the elected candidates will take up office at the Macra AGM on 6 May 2017. Ballot papers will be issued on Tuesday 14 March.

    The deadline for ballots is 1pm on 4 April.

    Locations

    A series of hustings will take place at locations across the country.

    There will be two hustings per region – a total of six. Details are below. All begin at 8pm sharp:

  • Thursday 9 March: Vienna Woods Hotel, Glanmire, Co Cork.
  • Monday 13 March: Springhill Hotel, Kilkenny city.
  • Wednesday 15 March: Mc William Park Hotel, Claremorris, Co Mayo.
  • Tuesday 21 March: Kilmurray Lodge, Co Limerick.
  • Thursday 23 March: Newgrange Hotel, Navan, Co Meath.

    • Macra na Feirme president Seán Finan said: ‘‘I would like to wish all the candidates the very best of luck over the coming weeks as they embark on the campaign trail. ’’