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Macra calls for dedicated succession scheme

Macra National Agricultural Affairs Committee chair, Sean Kelly; Macra national president, Josephine O'Neill; Macra National Rural Youth Committee chair, Emma Kate O'Dwyer at the launch of Macra's pre-budget 2027 document.

Macra recently launched its pre-budget 2027 submission, calling on Government to deliver targeted measures to support young farmers. Chief among the measures would be a dedicated succession scheme to support the transfer of farm management to the next generation, alongside increased investment in young farmer supports and rural infrastructure. It its submission, Macra noted: ‘Generational renewal is no longer just an agricultural concern; it is a national priority’. The organisation stressed that ‘fewer than one per cent of agricultural land is sold annually, underlining the importance of effective succession measures, collaborative arrangements and improved access to finance for young farmers’.
Macra’s submission is built around three key themes: a prosperous rural Ireland; a liveable rural Ireland; and A healthy rural Ireland. Among the organisation’s principal asks are:

  • The introduction of a long-awaited succession scheme to support generational renewal.
  • Annual Exchequer funding of €150,000 for the Land Mobility Service.
  • Enhanced grant rates and priority access for young farmers under TAMS.
  • A €500 million Growth and Sustainability Loan Scheme offering low-cost finance.
  • Reform of the Vacant and Derelict Property Grant to make rural home ownership more accessible.
  • Greater investment in rural transport, broadband and mobile connectivity.
  • Dedicated funding for rural mental health initiatives, including Make the Moove.
  • Increased supports for farm safety and addiction services
  • Legally binding ring-fenced funding for young farmers in the next CAP, with at least 6 per cent of agricultural spending dedicated to generational renewal.
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