Tackling generational renewal must be an urgent priority - ICSA
The Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers' Association (ICSA) president has said that tackling the generational renewal crisis in Irish farming must be an urgent priority.
Sean McNamara made the comments following a meeting with the Commission for Generational Renewal in Portlaoise today (Thursday, February 27).
He said the absence of a dedicated retirement or succession scheme for decades has created a severe bottleneck in land mobility.
"For too long, we have seen policy inaction on generational renewal, and the consequences are now stark.
"With the average age of farmers at 58 and one-third over 65, there is a major block preventing younger farmers from entering the sector.
"The absence of a viable retirement or succession scheme has left older farmers holding onto land because they have no financial security if they step back.
"This has created a major barrier to land mobility and farm succession," he said.
As part of the ICSA submission on generational renewal in farming, the association has proposed the establishment of a succession and retirement fund to deliver a gradual succession and mentorship scheme.
"This would provide financial security for older farmers willing to step back while giving younger farmers the opportunity to take over.
"The proposed scheme would guarantee farmers aged 55 and above an annual income for ten years if they enter a structured succession plan, ensuring a stable transition," McNamara said.
The ICSA president added that addressing the backlog of farmers waiting for a viable exit strategy must be the first priority.
"We cannot sustain a future-focused generational renewal policy until we support the farmers who have been left in limbo due to the lack of a retirement or succession scheme.
"There must be an open upper age limit for entry into the scheme until we reach a target of at least 20% of farmers being under 40.
"Only after this can we shift towards a long-term, sustainable framework for generational renewal," he said.
The ICSA’s proposals also include measures to enhance the financial viability of young farmers, such as increased young farmer payments, installation aid of €30,000 per year for five years, and the provision of low-interest, state-backed loans.
"In addition, tax reliefs for non-farming investors must be restricted, while land leasing incentives should be strengthened to ensure land remains in the hands of active farmers.
"Generational renewal is not just about transferring land – it is about ensuring farming remains a viable career for young people.
"Without adequate financial supports and policy adjustments, young farmers will continue to struggle, and the sector will decline.
"We must prioritise practical, meaningful supports to make farming a sustainable and attractive profession," he said.
The ICSA president said that this is “a pivotal moment for Irish farming".
"Supporting young farmers while safeguarding the interests of older members transitioning out of active farming is essential.
"Investment in generational renewal is an investment in rural communities, sustainable food production, food security, and the long-term sustainability of Irish agriculture.
"With the value of our Irish agri-food exports reaching €17 billion annually it is an investment worth making.
"ICSA looks forward to working with the commission and the government to ensure this process delivers real results," he said.
