Longford Farming: Generational Renewal Week to showcase opportunities and supports
Teagasc said their guidance is clear that generational renewal is a process and families who start early tend to build more resilient, innovative farms.
By Alan O’Brien, Teagasc Drystock Advisor Castlerea
Fresh thinking and new energy are just some of the advantages associated with involving the next generation in the family farm business.
Farms, like any successful enterprise, thrive when fresh ideas and new energy are blended with experience.
Many families have contemplated the most appropriate pathway for sons, daughters and young relatives to build sustainable farm careers.
Teagasc guidance is clear: generational renewal is a process, not a single handover.
Families who start early, talk openly and phase responsibility tend to build more resilient, innovative farms.
The first step can often be a conversation around the kitchen table. Who is genuinely interested in farming? What roles do people see for themselves?
How will decision‑making and income evolve over time?
Honest dialogue avoids assumptions and reduces conflict later.
From there, back young people with skills. Formal training through the Green Cert and advanced courses, combined with structured on‑farm mentoring, builds confidence in all aspects of the farm.
Pathways will differ from farm to farm, so choose the route that fits your family and business.
Some families move into a Registered Farm Partnership to share management and profits while transferring know‑how; others use share farming or long‑term leasing when a successor is still developing, or where multiple siblings are involved.
The key is to agree a written plan with clear milestones for responsibility, remuneration and investment decisions so the chosen pathway matches your farm’s scale, enterprises and people.
Finance and legal planning should start early too. Map out a business plan, explore wills and lifetime transfer options, and understand relevant tax reliefs. Crucially, secure a clear income and role for the outgoing generation.
Teagasc are running a Generational Renewal Week from Monday, September 7 until September 11 next.
The week will feature Webinars and Farm Walks to explore leadership renewal, multi‑generational collaboration and succession planning and will deal with many of the key issues on generational renewal.