The IFA has urged farmers to vote for those election candidates they believe will best represent farmers and the agricultural sector in the next European Parliament.

IFA president Joe Healy has said that it is important that farmers and their families exercise their vote.

“Agriculture is one of the few areas where we have a common EU policy, so this is a particularly significant election for farmers. It’s vital that we elect MEPs who are prepared to support an increased budget for the Common Agricultural Policy,” he said.

Far-reaching decisions

Healy said those elected as MEPs for Ireland will have some far-reaching decisions to make about the future of Irish agriculture.

The European Parliament has a greater say than ever in the decision-making process, so farmers should think carefully about who they want to represent them, he said.

“The major decisions on the shape of the next Common Agricultural Policy and the future trading relationship between the EU and UK will be made during lifetime of the new European Parliament.

“It is vital that farmers vote for candidates who understand these and other issues impacting on farming. These include a fairer food chain to deliver a bigger share back to the farmer and policy on climate action,” he said.

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