Humphreys pledges to be a strong voice for farmers

Presidential candidate Heather Humphreys has pledged to be a strong advocate for Irish farming and the broader agricultural sector if elected to Áras an  Úachtarain.

Speaking after meeting with an inter-generational group of farmers in county Meath, Heather Humphreys said:  “I was born, raised and lived all my life on a farm. If there is a job to be done on a farm, I’ve done it! I am deeply proud of my farming background, and if I am elected President, I will be a proud voice for farming and the agricultural sector.

“I will be visible out and about with farmers. As Minister for Rural Affairs, I championed support for agricultural shows and if elected President I will put a major focus on attending those shows – in particular the smaller ones, and saying thank you to the volunteers who run them.

“I will champion the Irish produce – Áras an Úachtarain will be a showcase for the best of Irish produce.

“As part of my commitment to lead trade missions, I particularly want to work with Bord Bia to expand existing and find new markets for our Irish agri-food sector.

“Having led over a dozen international trade missions as Business Minister, I know how to represent Ireland well overseas. Those missions will have a much greater impact and access if they are led by the President.

“Most importantly though, I know that so many people in farming worry about the future. They are worried about changing regulations, about climate action, about succession and fear being left behind. As someone whose life has been intertwined with farming, I will be a positive voice for farming, someone who ensures that the value to society of farming is heard and who encourages the next generation to take it up.

“I humbly ask farmers and all those involved in Irish agriculture to place their trust in me to represent them with integrity in Áras an Uachtaráin.”