Disappointment as Limerick dairy farmer loses out on IFA top spot

COUNTY Limerick farmer Martin Stapleton has lost his bid to become president of the Irish Farmers Association.

His opponent, Francie Gorman, is set to take over the role in January after a resounding success in the IFA presidential election.

Mr Stapleton, a dairy farmer from Oola, Co Limerick, launched his bid for the role in June 2023.

"Renewing respect for farmers and renewing the power of IFA" was the cornerstone of his presidential campaign, with his campaign also highlighting the freedom of farmers to farm for themselves while reconciling the need for climate and biodiversity action.

Mr Gorman, a beef, suckler and sheep farmer from Ballinakill in Co Louth, won the election with 16,699 votes to Mr Stapleton's 13,210.

While Mr Stapelton had majorities in Munster, his opposition clinched his victory with majorities in all the counties of Leinster, Connacht and Ulster.

The turnout for the election was later confirmed as being just shy of 30,000, with up to 20,000 of those ballots sent in via the newly introduced postal vote system.

In his acceptance speech Mr Gorman graciously acknowledged Mr Stapleton as an opponent, and congratulated him on "a well fought campaign".

"The dedication to IFA that you have demonstrated throughout your career was carried through in this election. I want to acknowledge you, your family, friends and supporters for running a dignified and fair campaign," Mr Gorman said.

Mr Gorman takes over from Tim Cullinane in January 2024 when the IFA AGM will be held.