The Farm Tractor & Machinery Trade Association (FTMTA) has confirmed that CEO Gary Ryan will leave the association in the coming weeks to pursue other opportunities.

Ryan held the position since October 2008 and has assisted in the growth and development of the association’s two main shows, FTMTA Grass & Muck and FTMTA Farm Machinery Show.

Ryan said that he enjoyed working with, and on behalf of, the members of the FTMTA and believes that very positive results have been achieved for the association and trade on a number of fronts over his time with FTMTA.

The trade has proven to be a resilient one over the years and has dealt with the challenges posed

Ryan added: “It is imperative for what is a relatively small trade in the overall context to have a strong representative body. The farm machinery sector is a vital one within an economy such as Ireland where agriculture and agribusiness overall are such important activities.

“The trade has proven to be a resilient one over the years and has dealt with the challenges posed by the public health situation in recent times in a commendable manner. The final implementation of Brexit has brought challenges for the trade also but these can be dealt with and, based on the current farming outlook, the trade can look forward to a good year in 2021.”

FTMTA president Diarmuid Claridge said: “On behalf of the association and its members, I would like to thank Gary for his contribution and dedication to the industry over these past years. The association wishes Gary all the best with his future endeavours.”