Martin Browne (Tipperary, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

We all recognise that young farmers are the future of this industry. Therefore, they have an acute sense of what will be needed. The witnesses stated that the limitations placed on young farmers' supports directly discriminated against early entry into partnerships. Will they outline the implications of GAEC 2 and similar measures to do with protected lands? They referred to how the number of farmers under 35 years of age on uplands and peat soils was significantly lower than the national percentage. Are decisions being made that would put land use and inheritance or acquisition out of the reach of future generations?

I have spoken to Macra na Feirme about my next point previously and wish to raise it again. What do our young farmers see when they look at the technology that is currently available in terms of their ability to access and use it? What are their views on how they are being supported in accessing such technology?

I should have started by welcoming the guests and wishing them all the best.