Josephine O’Neill, from Callan in Co. Kilkenny is to become the next president of Macra, succeeding outgoing president, Elaine Houlihan.

The secondary school teacher was elected following a count of votes at the Irish Farm Centre, Dublin, today (April 4).

O'Neill beat fellow contestant for the role, Conor Murphy, a member of Whitechurch Macra club in Co. Cork with a total of 82 votes to Murphy's 53 votes. There was one spoilt vote.

William Clancy, Borrisoleigh Macra, Co. Tipperary was elected as Munter vice-president.

Coming from a beef and tillage background, the Kilkenny woman has been a member of Macra for 12 years.

Speaking to Agriland during her campaign, O'Neill explained why she wanted to become president: “I joined Macra almost 12 years ago, and since then, I gained a lot from the organisation in terms of experiences, opportunities for personal development and the great memories that I’ve made as well.

“I’ve also been actively involved within the organisation in terms of the responsibilities and the roles that I’ve taken on over the years. I’ve been club chairperson, secretary, county secretary and treasurer.

“So between the passion that I have for the organisation and the experience that I’ve gained, I feel that I’m the best person to be able to contribute, to give back to, to grow and develop the organisation further in the capacity as president.”

Outlining the qualities and skills she felt made her best candidate for the role, Josephine said: “As a longstanding member, I have experience which I think will stand to me as president. I also believe the passion that I have for the organisation will drive me be the best that I can be.

“I am a secondary school teacher so in terms of the skills that I can bring to the role, I’ve got strong communication skills, which I’ve developed through the organisation as well through competitions like public speaking and debating."