‘Future of farming must be fair’ says senator

A former Cork councillor has been appointed as vice president of an agriculture and rural affairs group in Europe.

Now a Fine Gael Senator, Eileen Lynch’s appointment to the European People’s Party (EPP) Farmers Group will, she said, position her as a key Irish voice in shaping agricultural and rural policy at the heart of Europe. She said she has repeatedly spoken out on the challenges facing farmers, from the impact of climate targets to the administrative burden of the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).

She said: “This appointment is about making sure Ireland’s farmers are heard in Brussels. The future of farming must be fair and sustainable — but it must also be workable for those on the ground. I’ll be bringing the voices of Irish farmers directly into European debates, from CAP reform to rural development strategy. Having previously served as secretary general of Youth EPP and given my direct experience in building coalitions across Europe, combined with my deep roots in rural Cork, I am uniquely placed to bridge the gap between Brussels and the Irish countryside.”

The move comes at a critical time for Ireland’s agricultural sector, with CAP reform, rising costs, and generational renewal dominating the agenda.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Martin Heydon said it’s vital Ireland has strong voices at the heart of Europe to represent the interests of Irish farmers. “I know Eileen... will provide an important bridge between Brussels and Irish agriculture. I look forward to continuing to work with her.”