IFA is regressing into the Dark Ages - Ormiston
First female chair of Cavan IFA laments diversity in organisation.
It wasn’t quite a Valentine’s Day massacre, but outgoing Cavan chair still took aim at what she believes is a failure to promote women within IFA in her parting speech.
Elizabeth Ormiston concluded her duties at Monday’s AGM in the Lavey Inn with the direct, no nonsense approach which has characterised her four year term. The Mullagh farmer indicated her displeasure at not securing the nominations needed to contest an election at a more senior level. She pointed to this as an example of the organisation regressing into the Dark Ages.
“As the first female chair of County Cavan IFA I served in strange and challenging times. I’ve done my best for the farmers I’ve represented, who are prioritised at all times.
“It is regrettable I did not get the opportunity to contest the election to represent those same farmers at the next level in IFA. I think it’s unfortunate our organisation is regressing into the Dark Ages instead of progressing into modern times.
“Three years ago IFA had seven female county chairs; today we only have two. This is a clear indication of the direction IFA is going on equality.
“Reinforcing this was the minister for agriculture at the IFA National AGM last month, when he said: ‘We need to do much more to recognise the contribution of women to farming. And to encourage their participation in representative organisations.’
“I hope one day the association will recognise, acknowledge and progress talented people, including females who are passionate about farming. Those with a deep knowledge and keen interest in current farming issues deserve a chance to represent farmers and to influence the policy making that affects their livelihood.”
Elizabeth nevertheless signed off by saying she was honoured to serve as county chair and thanked the members and the county officers for their help and support. Her words were greeted with warm applause and she was presented with a sculpture of a cow with calf, and a bouquet of flowers. There were numerous tributes made from the floor for her work during the last four years.
“I’m not used to getting that sort of praise,” said Elizabeth speaking after the AGM. “People say I’m blunt and to the point, but it seemed to be appreciated.”
Despite her misgivings over equality the beef farmer hasn’t ruled out a future representative role with the IFA.
“IFA tends at this point in time to be gearing a bit towards the very big dairy farmer, and they are forgetting about me and the likes of me. I’d like to be a voice for those people going forward.”