THE CURRENT PRESIDENT of the Irish Farmers’ Association has said former presidents are “private citizens” and can conduct themselves politically as they choose – but they do not speak for the organisation. 

Francie Gorman issued a brief statement today after nine former presidents of the IFA came out in support of Fine Gael’s candidate Heather Humphreys.

In a newspaper ad, the nine set out that it is their belief that Humphreys has the experience for the role of President and understands the importance of agriculture.

The letter said the nine signatories would be voting for Humphreys and asked that others do the same.

Gorman today emphasised that the IFA is an apolitical organisation, as is set out in its constitution, and the nine former presidents are private citizens who can vote for or endorse whomever they choose. 

“However, they do not speak for IFA and IFA does not support any candidate in this election or any other election.”

Gorman called on all farming families to use their vote on Friday and vote for the candidate of their choosing. 

“I do not believe that any purpose is served by spoiling your vote or voting for someone who has withdrawn from the election,” he said.

Humphreys’s campaign has leaned into her support for “rural pursuits” and agriculture as she eyes up Fianna Fáil’s abandoned vote share. However, Connolly has also spoken on the importance of agriculture throughout the campaign.