Macra met directly with elected representatives to discuss the priorities outlined in the organisation’s 2027 pre-budget submission during its annual lobbying day.

The submission, which was officially launched at Macra’s AGM in May, sets out a range of measures aimed at supporting young farmers and rural young people.

With approximately 40 elected representatives attending throughout the day, including a strong representation from the Oireachtas Agriculture Committee, members had the opportunity to highlight the challenges facing their generation and explain why action is needed in Budget 2027.

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The submission focuses on issues such as generational renewal, farm succession, access to finance, taxation measures, housing, rural services and supports for young farmers entering the sector.

These are issues that members encounter every day and which will play a major role in determining the future sustainability of farming and rural communities.

Lobbying day provided an important platform for members to bring these concerns directly to policymakers.

Discussions throughout the day focused on the practical realities facing young people trying to establish themselves in farming, access land, secure housing and build viable businesses in rural Ireland.

A special thank you is due to all of the members who attended and lobbied on behalf of the organisation.

Their willingness to engage with politicians, share their experiences and advocate for positive change ensured that the concerns of young farmers and rural young people were voiced clearly and constructively.

The attendance from public representatives was encouraging and demonstrated a clear willingness to engage with the issues raised. Many of Macra’s key requests were met with positive feedback during discussions, reflecting a growing recognition of the challenges facing the next generation of farmers.

Delivery

However, while the engagement was welcome, the focus now turns to delivery. The organisation has consistently highlighted the need for meaningful action to support generational renewal and strengthen rural Ireland.

The proposals outlined in the pre-budget submission have gained traction, but they cannot become empty promises.

As preparations for Budget 2027 continue, Macra will continue to engage with policymakers to ensure the commitments discussed on Lobbying Day are translated into tangible measures.

Macra National President Josephine O’Neill noted: “While Macra’s key asks were warmly received by elected representatives in attendance, it is vital that this is not just hot air and that we see delivery in this year’s budget to ensure that the future of young farmers and rural young people is considered and protected.”

Young farmers and rural young people need more than acknowledgement of the challenges they face, they need solutions that will allow them to build futures, careers and communities in rural Ireland.