Irish Farmers' Association

The Irish Farmers' Association is a national organisation to represent the interests of all sectors of farming in Ireland. The IFA is Ireland's largest farming representative organisation and has operated for more than 60 years.
The IFA represents Irish farmers at home and in Europe, lobbying and campaigning for improved conditions and incomes for farm families. It also provides representation, support and advice to members on an individual basis.
IFA is a democratic association, organised in branches, county executive and national committees.
The IFA's head office is at the Irish Farm Centre, in Bluebell, Dublin. It also maintains 12 regional offices and an office in Brussels.

History

Foundation as the National Farmers' Association

The organisation was founded in January 1955 as the National Farmers Association, aiming to lead Irish farmers out of the depression and deprivation which had dominated rural Ireland for decades.

Merging of organisations

The NFA merged in the 1960s with four smaller organisations representing specific sectors to form the Irish Farmers Association – the IFA.

Engagement with Europe

In the 1972 referendum on Irish membership of the European Economic Community, the IFA campaigned for a "yes" vote, seeking access to European markets and higher prices for agricultural produce.
The IFA denounced the European Union–Mercosur Free Trade Agreement as a "disgraceful and feeble sell-out".

Salary controversy

In November 2015, Eddie Downey and Pat Smith resigned due to a salary controversy. Smith's salary in 2013 had been €535,000. He resigned on 18 November. A week later, members of the organisation's national executive council were informed that Smith had been given €2m in severance and €2.7m in pension. Eddie Downey admitted he had signed off on this agreement and resigned. Downey was earning €147,000 a year plus €50,000 in add-ons when he resigned.
The IFA confirmed that former chief economist Con Lucey—who had attempted to raise concerns over financial issues and transparency before quitting under duress in 2014—would oversee a review of salaries and expenses.