James Gallagher, a sheep farmer from Kinlough, Co Leitrim, has been elected chair of the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) hill farming committee, following a meeting on Tuesday.

He succeeds Caillin Conneely, who has completed a four-year term as chair. The committee acknowledged Conneely’s significant contribution and leadership during his tenure.

On his appointment, Gallagher said: “I am delighted to have been elected chair of the IFA hill farming committee and I look forward to working closely with the committee, farmers and sector stakeholders in the years ahead.

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“There are a number of key issues coming down the tracks, like CAP and the Nature Restoration Law, amongst others. I look forward to representing our hill farmers to ensure their views and concerns are heard,” he added.

Gallagher will formally take up the position of chair of the hill farming committee at the 71st IFA AGM next week.