Macra na Feirme had its say at the two-day National Economic Dialogue that took place recently at Dublin Castle. Organised by the Department of Finance, the aim of the forum was to discuss economic and social priorities and engage with organisations ahead of the 2017 Budget.

Macra na Feirme national president Seán Finan spoke on a number of issues affecting young farmers and rural young people, which Macra would like addressed in the upcoming budget. The items raised include further favourable tax measures to encourage land mobility and generational renewal, the extension of young farmer stock and stamp duty relief, the introduction of more competition into the banking sector resulting in more favourable credit rates for young farmers, additional resources for agricultural education, taxation measures to combat income volatility, funding to be prioritised for the rollout of high-speed broadband in rural Ireland, additional mental health funding and the reversal of funding cuts to the youth sector.

There were nine different breakout sessions dealing with a wide variety of topics from taxation and public expenditure to transport, education and skills. Macra na Feirme participated in the session “Delivering on Foodwise 2025” chaired by Junior Agriculture Minister Andrew Doyle TD.

Finan said: “Young farmers are the future of the agriculture industry, with the tools to drive forward and develop their businesses such as land, education and finance, as well as a fair return from the market and a viable income. Young farmers are committed to working with the Government to deliver on the jobs and growth agenda which is set out in Food Wise 2025.”