Welcome

Here, we offer a taste of what to expect at the show, plus the latest machinery news, reviews and upcoming trends.

In addition, on page 58, Michael Farrelly, executive director of the FTMTA, chats about the upcoming show and the importance of the industry to Ireland’s farming communities and overall economy. We also look back on the very first FTMTA Farm Machinery Show, which took place in February 1989 against a backdrop of skepticism from certain quarters at the time. The success of event continues to this day with plans for a February show to return in 2024.

Looking at wider industry issues, on page 56 Bernie Commins reports on the importance of encouraging recruitment and promoting career opportunities in the farm-machinery sector, while on page 64 David Leydon at Ifac outlines the employment challenges for agri-contractors and advises on ways to minimise risk.

Elsewhere, Bobby Miller, chair of the Irish Grain Growers, offers some insight into the main driving forces behind choosing tillage equipment; the hot topic of autonomous machines is discussed on page 62; and readers will find all the latest news from leading manufacturers and distributors. 

The aim of this month’s FTMTA Farm Machinery Show focus is to whet your appetite for the event in July and keep readers up to speed on developments in the trade. We hope you enjoy the content and if you haven’t already booked your tickets, or your stand space, for what promises to be an excellent and exciting show, visit
www.ftmta.ie for full details. We look forward to seeing you all there. 

Until next month, farm wisely and farm safely.