An IFA election with a difference is taking place at present. Francie Gorman and James Kehoe are battling it out for the south Leinster regional chair position, one that carries a place on the eight-strong executive board of the organisation.

Take a look back at Wednesday night's webinar debate, hosted by Pat O'Toole of the Irish Farmers Journal:

The two men share many similarities: both are drystock farmers, both have served as county chairs - Gorman in Laois, Kehoe just ending his term in Wexford.

They have been on national commodity committees - Gorman on livestock, Kehoe on sheep. Both are straight-shooters, forthright in their views.

The two men have debated the issues that concern members at virtual executive meetings of the six neutral counties in the region - Kilkenny, Carlow, Wicklow, Kildare, Dublin and Offaly.

Voting is taking place this week. The thousand-plus branch delegates and county officers have received their postal ballots and will be taking a look at the candidates.

This was a great chance for everyone to hear the main issues facing farming thrashed out between two passionate farmer representatives.

Following a year when the normal rounds of meetings have been denied us, it’s a great chance to take the temperature of farming.

Candidates' opening addresses

Francie Gorman

Francie Gorman Opening Remarks in South Leinster Regional Chair Debate.

James Kehoe

James Kehoe Opening Remarks in South Leinster Regional Chair Debate.