The Irish agricultural sector is currently experiencing a significant demographic challenge, with just 4.35% of farmers under 35 years old (Farm Structure Survey, Central Statistics Office, 2023). Established by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) in late 2024 to tackle this issue, Ireland’s Commission on Generational Renewal in Farming, published a report in September 2025, with 31 recommended actions across a wide range of areas including CAP Supports; Pensions; Taxation; Access to Finance; Access to Land; Collaborative Arrangements; Advisory Services; Education and Training; Gender Balance; and the Overall Attractiveness of the Sector. An implementation group within the Department is now considering these recommendations. The final action called on all stakeholders, including farm organisations and state bodies to change the national discussion on farming to positively support environmental, social and economic sustainability, and to enhance the image of farming as a career.
CAP Network Ireland, through its TY programme is working to address this action, developing students’ understanding of agriculture via a flexible and interactive programme. We are capturing information from the students and developing their awareness of agriculture, the impact of CAP supports, and the potential opportunities for career progression within the sector. The students work in groups to identify key agricultural stakeholders, or as we call it their ‘Team of Ag’. Following this, they identify the social, economic and environmental benefits agriculture can contribute to the wider community in Ireland.
This classroom exercise is followed by a visit to a working farm where students hear from the participant farmer about their role as a farmer, the supports they receive under the CAP, the journey of food from farm to fork explaining how the farm is one element of the wider food value chain in Ireland. While the overall attractiveness of farming as a career choice in Ireland is challenged by factors such as low income, the perception of increasing administrative burdens, isolation, perceived long working days, hard labour and a perception of limited societal prestige, with increasing career options and a competitive labour market, young people in Ireland often see farming as a less appealing livelihood. We in CAP Network Ireland are working to highlight the benefits such as driving the economy (jobs, exports), supporting rural areas, providing fresh food, fostering social inclusion, preserving the landscape and preserving our cultural heritage.
To get involved in CAP Network Irelands TY programme contact info@CAPNetworkIreland.eu and for more information on the work carried out by the Irish Commission on Generational Renewal in Farming click link.
