New president of state’s family farm organisation

ICMSA has announced that Denis Drennan has succeeded Pat McCormack as president of the association – Ireland's oldest dedicated family farm organisation heading into its 74th year.

Mr Drennan, who farms at Dunbell in

County Kilkenny, paid tribute to his predecessor and said he would be satisfied if he could achieve “anything like” the respect and sincerity of commitment accorded to Mr McCormack, Mr Drennan said that the association will continue its founding commitment to advocating on behalf of Ireland's irreplaceable family farm system which Mr Drennan insisted had an importance and role for much of the state that went far beyond just its ‘backbone' economic role.

“That's who we are, that's why we are and that's what we are. That will never change, and my job is to safeguard that founding principle. In recognition of the changing way that debate is being conducted and developed at State level, we will accelerate in terms of our already significant expertise on the data and science behind the impact of environmental regulations on our farming sectors. But our focus – the interests and incomes of Ireland's family farms – will not change or diminish”, said Mr Drennan.

Eamonn Carroll, from Templemore in County Tipperary, will succeed Mr Drennan as Deputy President, as well as chairing the Farm & Rural Affairs Committee. Michael O'Connell from Loughmore in County Tipperary will chair the Livestock Committee in succession to Des Morrison and Pat O'Brien from Tullamore was elected Chairperson of the Farm Business Committee.

All positions become effective immediately and Mr Drennan concluded by wishing all members and their families, a “better and less stressful farming year in 2024”.