IFA president urges farmers to vote Yes

The president of the Irish Farmers Association (IFA), Mr John Dillon, has called on all farmer families to vote Yes to Nice to…

The president of the Irish Farmers Association (IFA), Mr John Dillon, has called on all farmer families to vote Yes to Nice to maintain "our influence and goodwill in Europe".

Addressing a special meeting of the IFA national council in Dublin, Mr Dillon said there was nothing to be gained from voting No "as it will not improve the farm situation here or in Europe".

"Farmers will have greater influence in the forthcoming CAP negotiation by being at the centre of the negotiating table by voting Yes and there is a risk that a No vote would marginalise Ireland in future negotiations.

"My advice to farmers is clear and straightforward: Don't leave it to someone else to decide; come out and vote Yes for Nice on 19th October," he said.