It is at this time of year that we all should take an opportunity to look back on the year that has all but passed and reflect on where we are, but also where we have come from.

2022 has been an interesting year. We have all but come out of the worst of COVID-19. The lockdowns are at an end and we can move and socialise again.

This year has also brought new challenges to face. There are many challenges that I can cite in this article, but I want to focus on just one – the challenge of generational renewal. There is a figure that I often cite – that there are more farmers over the age of 65 than under the age of 35.

As was pointed out to me, this figure dates from 2016. Therefore, it might be more accurate to say that there are more farmers over the age of 70 than under 35 or indeed 40.

This should give cause for concern to more people than it does, as we have always been a producer of high-quality food.

We as a society take it for granted that food production, regardless of whatever impediment or restriction is imposed upon us, will continue unabated. This should be true.

We as a nation are adaptable, we as a food production sector are exceptionally adaptable. However, to be truly adaptable, we need to be able to replace the most important element in the food production process, the farmer.

As our farming population ages, their ability to make seismic changes to their methods of production decreases.

It is very difficult for farmers who have inherited a system of farming, improved on this system of farming in line with best international practice and advice as received from the EEC, EC and, finally, the EU and then turn it through 180 degrees to engage in other farming practices to meet the new requirements.

All of us are tired of what can sometimes feel like change to meet a prevailing sentiment as opposed to change that is backed up by science and fact.

This change if it is to come can and will be predominantly delivered by the next generation of food producers.

It is time to stop vilifying our producers of food, who contribute so much to our internal food security as well as our economy. It is time to support the efforts of Macra and other like-minded organisations in their efforts to support and encourage more young farmers into our industry.

Contribution

I would like to take this opportunity to thank and recognise the contribution of all of our members who have through their efforts made this year a memorable one in almost 80 years of Macra.

Considerable effort was expended, more will be given freely in 2023 to best represent and support our sector in the challenging times ahead. I would like to also take this opportunity to wish each and all of you readers a happy Christmas. I sincerely hope that you take the opportunity to have a well-deserved break.