Mayo candidate calls for special status for farmers

MAYO farmers are concerned about their future in terms of climate change, the next Common Agricultural Policy and prices.

That's according to independent election candidate, Gerry Loftus.

The founder of Ireland's Future, who is contesting the upcoming general election, stated after atemnding the Mayo Sligo Co-Op Mart in Ballina yesterday:

""Cattle are the same price as they were 40 years ago", one man said as he stressed that the cost of everything has increased dramatically.

"There were other complaints from two farmers where forestry was planted within 30 metres of their homes, blocking light and their view.

"One of them said “that’s how it is - there is no planning permission when it comes to forestry".”

He told farmers that the west of Ireland is special because of its land-type.

"We must now look for special status for the west.

"We have the most valuable land in the world for carbon sequestration but politicians want our land to write off carbon emissions from industry.

"We must elect politicians that will represent the people, not politicians that sign party pledges to represent parties and forget about the people who elected them in the first place," added Loftus, who called for the formation of a western alliance of independents from Donegal to Kerry.

"I urge people to think carefully before casting their vote in this election, which I view as crucial for the entire country."