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There is a potential avalanche of developments on the horizon for derogation farmers following the events of the last week, particularly the layering of the Habitats Directive on top of the Nitrates and Water Framework Directives as part of the process of securing Ireland's next nitrates derogation.  Macra President Josephine O'Neill states, "This comes at a time when the family farm model is already under pressure from layers of compliance and the additionality of measures to be implemented at the family farm level, notwithstanding any additional future burdens." The EU Commission is championing simplification, freedom to farm and protecting diversity of...

Macra is once again highlighting the urgent need for the delivery of a Succession Scheme to ensure the future of the Irish Agricultural sector. Macra as an organisation has been calling on this action for over 40 years, and we are now at a crisis point.Macra President Josephine O’Neill is calling on the Government to take action. “If our Ministers and officials do not take action soon on this critical issue, I fear we may not have the next generation to take on farms. We have been waiting over 40 years to see action on this matter, and it is...

Tickets are now on sale for Macra’s 81st AGM, which this year will be hosted by Clare Macra in Ennis.The event will take place on Saturday, May 10th, in the Woodstock Hotel in Ennis.This year’s event will be a busy occasion, with not only the usual reports and discussion of motions and recommendations but also the handover to the newly elected presidential team.Following the recent election count, the newly elected team will consist of Josephine O’Neill as President, Andrew Dunne as Leinster Vice President, William Clancy as Munster Vice president and John Duffy as Northwest Vice President.Speaking at the count,...

After a close-fought campaign, Josephine O’Neill, a secondary school teacher and a proud member of Callan Macra, Co. Kilkenny, has been named Macra’s 40th National President Elect following the count in the Irish Farm Centre earlier today. Outgoing President Elaine Houlihan said, “Congratulations to Josephine on her victory. I am delighted to be handing over Macra to Josephine's safe hands and wish her the very best of luck as she adjusts to her new role”.  Elaine also noted that history has been made. “Josephine is the first female candidate to contest and win a Macra Presidential Election, and we would...

Elaine Houlihan, returning officer for the Macra National elections, is delighted to announce a full complement of candidates for their Presidential and Vice-Presidential elections after the close of nominations today (Tuesday, 4th March ) at 5pm. “It’s brilliant to see two elections happening in the organisation for the role of National President and Munster Vice-President”, said Ms Houlihan.“I am delighted to announce Andrew Dunne and John Duffy as the Leinster and Northwest Vice Presidents elect,” continued Ms Houlihan.They will take over the roles from Patrick Jordan and Rob Lally at the national AGM this May in County Clare. There are...