Public meeting in Kilgowan discusses equine and agriculture industry in Kildare

Commercial Rates, late payments to farmers, the impact of Brexit were just some of the topics discussed at a public meeting held by Fianna Fail TD Fiona O’Loughlin last Wednesday evening in Wall’s of Kilgowan .

In attendance were FF Spokespersons on Agriculture, Horticulture and Food - Charlie McConalogue and Jackie Cahill

Cllrs Martin Miley and Cllr Darragh Fitzpatrick facilitated the meeting and chair of Kildare IFA , Brian Rushe was also present.

The turnout at the meeting numbered about 100 and made up of farmers and people involved in the Equine and Agriculture business throughout Kildare.

Deputy O’Loughlin opened by stating the importance of the equine industry in Kildare.

The combined equine industry in Ireland is worth €2 billion to the Irish economy, employs 28,000 people directly and is believed to contribute indirectly to the household incomes of more than 58,000 people.

Britain, France and Ireland have a tripartite agreement that deals with free movement of thoroughbred horses which eases the ability to move horses from one country to the other. Brexit could potentially increase levels of bureaucracy and administration and therefore cost in this area.

Ireland exports of thoroughbreds to Britain are worth approx. €225 million each year, which may be at risk due to reduced trade flows following the vote in favour of Brexit. Exchange rate volatility will also poses a serious risk.

The Kildare Chair of the IFA spoke on the contribution that the agricultural sector make to this country and how it should not be undervalued. He called for industry to be ‘strong, vibrant and intensive’. He raised the many concerns that farmers have at the moment ,the potential threat that is Brexit and the damage already done.

He also addressed the issue of legislation regarding hedge cutting and how these ‘restrictive’ regulations can impact on farming work and also safety.

Fianna Fail TDs Mr McConalogue and Mr Cahill took questions from the floor on the varied topics and committed to raising a number of issues at national level.

True to their word this occurred the following day when the excessive rates being imposed on the equine industry was raised.

O’ Loughlin said that “this method of meeting people in Kildare and facilitating discussion on issues that are of major concern to people living in the county is proving very effective.

"We can get the opportunity to address matters at a local level with councillors and also at a national level with TD holding the relevant portfolio.”

This meeting was the second in a series of public meetings being organised by O’Loughlin.

The next meeting will take place in Hotel Keadeen on 30th March at 7pm. This meeting is being held with Alzheimer’s Society of Ireland.