Sinn Féin spokesperson on Agriculture Matt Carthy TD has launched a consultation process asking for proposals to help Save Ireland’s Family Farms.

Deputy Carthy has asked farmers and all those concerned about the future of Irish farming to complete an online survey outlining their proposals and suggestions.

Teachta Carthy said: “Sinn Féin are committed to delivering fair prices, fair play and a fair CAP for Irish family farmers.  We want to hear from those at the coalface to tell us the problems that currently exist as they see them and their suggestions as to how we can deliver policies that will save our family farm network.

“Family farms have been let down by successive governments.  There are huge challenges and uncertainties coming down the line.  Brexit, climate action, the new CAP and potentially devastating EU trade deals could potentially create new difficulties for a sector that is aging and facing increasing bureaucracy and regulation.

“The experiences of our family farmers must be heard in this process.  That is why I am launching this consultation process to ensure that their voices are at the heart of Sinn Féin’s Agriculture policy so that we in turn can prepare to implement them in government in the incumbent government fails to do so.

“I hope that we will hear from individual farmers, representative bodies, community organisations and anyone who has an interest in the future of our family farms and the rural communities that depend on them”.

Those wishing to participate can complete the online survey at: surveymonkey.com/r/SFAgri