Setting the scene for Generational Renewal Week, taking place from September 8 to 12, Collaborative Farming Specialist at Teagasc, Ruth Fennell tells us why a greater focus is needed on generation renewal, effective land transfer, and succession planning.
Ireland’s agricultural sector is facing a significant generational challenge. The age profile of Irish farmers is heavily slanted towards older age groups, with over one-third of farm holders aged 65 and over, and less than 6% under 35. This ageing demographic and lack of generational renewal threatens the long-term sustainability and productivity of the sector.
To ensure a vibrant future for Irish farming, a greater focus is needed on generation renewal, effective land transfer and succession planning. The Commission on Generation Renewal was established in October 2024, by the then Minister for Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue, to examine what steps should be taken to address this concerning issue. The Commission recently submitted its findings to the Minister for Agriculture, and the industry now eagerly awaits the publication of its report.
Barriers to generational renewal
One of the primary barriers to generational renewal is the delayed or absent transfer of farm ownership. Many older farmers continue to operate their farms well beyond retirement age, often without a clear plan for succession. This uncertainty hampers younger generations from establishing themselves in farming, limits innovation and discourages long-term investment in modern technologies and sustainable practices.
Land mobility is also a key concern. The Irish agricultural landscape is dominated by small, family-run farms. While this tradition is central to the identity of rural Ireland, it often results in land being held by older generations for long periods, sometimes until the owner’s passing. This restricts access for younger farmers and can lead to under utilisation of land.
Addressing the challenges
Addressing these issues requires both cultural and policy-driven change. Firstly, there must be greater awareness and open discussion about succession. Farmers often delay these conversations due to family dynamics, tax implications, or fear of losing control. However, early planning and transparent communication can ease the transition and reduce stress for all parties involved.
In recent years, the Irish government and EU have introduced several supports aimed at encouraging generational renewal. The Complementary Income Support for Young Farmers (CISYF) and the National Reserve provide financial support to qualifying young entrants. Tax reliefs, such as Young Trained Farmer Stamp Duty Relief, Consanguinity Relief and Agricultural Relief, offer incentives for land transfers. These measures help, but uptake is still limited.
Collaborative farming arrangements such as long-term leasing, registered farm partnerships, and share farming offer an alternative to outright ownership, enabling young farmers to gain experience and older farmers to reduce workload without exiting the farm industry entirely.
Education also plays a crucial role. Teagasc Agricultural colleges and advisory units continue to emphasise the importance of farm succession planning as part of broader business planning. Young farmers today are highly educated and open to innovation; facilitating their entry into the sector is vital for the adoption of climate-smart agriculture and sustainable practices.
Addressing the age structure of Irish farmers requires a coordinated approach involving families, advisors, and policymakers. Land transfer and succession are not just legal or financial decisions; they are central to the future of the Irish Agricultural Industry. By fostering earlier transitions, promoting collaborative models, and supporting younger generations, we can safeguard our agricultural heritage while futureproofing the sector for potential challenges and opportunities.
What’s planned for Generational Renewal Week
During Generational Renewal Week, Teagasc will host a hybrid programme of events on generation renewal. Included are three webinars and two farm walks. Whether you are just starting to consider succession planning, or are ready to take the next step, generational renewal week will have information of interest for everyone.
Find out more and register for the events taking place over Generational Renewal Week here.
Collaborative Farming Webinar, Monday, 8th September – 7.30pm
The first webinar in a series as part of ‘Generational Renewal Week’, this webinar with Ruth Fennell, Collaborative Farming Specialist, will look at collaborative farming options and how they can be used to address generation renewal.
Farm Succession & Inheritance Webinar, Tuesday, 9th September – 7.30pm
This webinar will focus on starting the conversation around Farm Succession and Inheritance with Claire O’Keeffe from Succession Ireland and Enda Geoghegan, Teagasc. The webinar will also cover the importance of making a will with James McDonnell, Financial Specialist, Teagasc.
Suckler Beef Farm Walk with Gerard and Shane O’Connor, Co Roscommon F45 C623, Wednesday, 10th September – 6.30pm
Join us on Wednesday, 10th September for a farm walk with father-and-son team Gerard and Shane O’Connor. They farm 18 suckler cows alongside a beef enterprise through a joint venture.
This event will explore their current farming system. Local Teagasc advisors will address management and health practices on the farm. Ruth Fennell will discuss how they’ve structured their joint venture and will focus on succession planning – including collaborative arrangements, tax considerations, and reliefs. Get valuable guidance on successfully transferring a farm from one generation to the next.
Taxes and Reliefs Webinar – Thursday, 11th September – 7.30pm
A final webinar in a series as part of ‘Generational Renewal Week’, this webinar will navigate the taxes and reliefs associated with farm transfers with Hugh MacEneaney, Financial Specialist, Teagasc.
Dairy Farm Walk on Tony McCormack and Chris Cahill’s farm, Clonyn, Delvin, Co Westmeath, N91 PT61, Friday, 12th September – 11am
Generational Renewal Week finishes with a farm walk at Tony McCormack and Chris Cahill’s farm in Clonyn, Delvin, Co Westmeath.
Tony and Chris operate under a Registered Farm Partnership, despite not being related. Chris was awarded the FBD Young Farmer of the Year in 2024. Together, they are managing a 240-cow spring-calving dairy enterprise.
The partnership has proven mutually beneficial. Chris gained valuable access to land and the opportunity to develop his farming career. Meanwhile, Tony, who works off-farm, sought to maintain involvement in farming without being engaged in the day-to-day operations and management.
Since its establishment in 2022, significant capital investment has taken place on the farm and the herd has doubled in size to allow for sufficient income for both partners. This arrangement is operating very successfully and is meeting the needs of both parties.
More from Teagasc Daily: The programme of events for Generational Renewal Week 2025