European Milk Board Focuses on Attracting Young Dairy Farmers at General Assembly
Source: The DairyNews
The General Assembly of the European Milk Board (EMB) convened last week, placing a strong emphasis on attracting and supporting a new generation of dairy farmers. The EMB, which serves as the representative body for dairy farmer organizations across Europe, saw delegations from various countries gather to discuss the profitability of the sector and strategies to entice young people into agriculture.
Ireland was represented by the Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers’ Association (ICMSA) at the assembly. A key discussion titled "What is Important for Young Farmers" allowed young dairy farmers to voice their priorities and perspectives, highlighting the need for a profitable and sustainable agricultural sector.
Pierre Bascou, a senior official from the European Commission's Directorate-General for Agriculture, addressed the assembly, outlining the commission’s policies aimed at improving the position of young farmers and primary producers.
Danish dairy farmer and EMB President Kjartan Poulsen summarized the group’s demands, calling for "a fresh policy for young people for a vibrant sector." Poulsen stressed the necessity of creating economic and social prospects to motivate the next generation to enter the agricultural sector and to keep existing farmers active in production. He pointed out that the sector is currently plagued by "constant, highly justified protests by socially marginalized farmers" rather than vitality.
EMB Vice-President and German farmer Elmar Hannen echoed these sentiments, stating, "We practice one of the most important and beautiful professions, but there are absolutely no economic or social prospects. This heavy burden discourages the next generation from entering the sector." Hannen emphasized that this issue extends beyond farmers, posing a severe threat to society as it undermines the foundation for stable, profitable food production in Europe.
The assembly underscored the urgent need for policies and measures that support young farmers, ensuring the sustainability and vitality of the European agricultural sector.
Pierre Bascou, a senior official from the European Commission's Directorate-General for Agriculture, addressed the assembly, outlining the commission’s policies aimed at improving the position of young farmers and primary producers.
Danish dairy farmer and EMB President Kjartan Poulsen summarized the group’s demands, calling for "a fresh policy for young people for a vibrant sector." Poulsen stressed the necessity of creating economic and social prospects to motivate the next generation to enter the agricultural sector and to keep existing farmers active in production. He pointed out that the sector is currently plagued by "constant, highly justified protests by socially marginalized farmers" rather than vitality.
EMB Vice-President and German farmer Elmar Hannen echoed these sentiments, stating, "We practice one of the most important and beautiful professions, but there are absolutely no economic or social prospects. This heavy burden discourages the next generation from entering the sector." Hannen emphasized that this issue extends beyond farmers, posing a severe threat to society as it undermines the foundation for stable, profitable food production in Europe.
The assembly underscored the urgent need for policies and measures that support young farmers, ensuring the sustainability and vitality of the European agricultural sector.
