GALWAY farmers with queries and issues over the future transfer of the family farm have been urged to attend an open meeting in Athenry on Monday evening next which will be addressed by a number of specialist speakers.

The IFA organised meeting in the Raheen Woods Hotel [8pm], which will be addressed by accounting, auctioneering and legal representatives is expected to draw a large attendance.

Galway IFA Farm Family Representative, Anne Mitchell, told the Farming Tribune that the meeting would attempt to address the many issues and queries that arise with the transfer of the family farm.

“The aim of the meeting is to give very practical advice in terms of the best way to approach what can be an issue of worry and concern for farm families.

“It will highlight the importance of farmers having a will made and not leaving their farm intestate [no will] after they have passed on. There are a few simple and basic steps to be followed that can be a great help to farm families,” said Anne Mitchell.

Speakers at Monday night’s meeting will include Martin Clarke, Commercial Manager with IFA Accountants, who will set out the process for transferring the farm and/or property in a tax efficient way.

Joseph Naughton, of Naughton Auctioneers Ballinasloe, will go through the up-to-date methods of transferring – or selling – a farm entitlements associated with the CAP [Common Agricultural Policy] supports.

All of the legal aspects and processes involved in the transfer of farmland and/or associated property will be dealt with by Donal Quinn of Quinn Solicitors, Athenry.

Anne Mitchell said that a good starting-off point in relation to succession would be an open family discussion around the kitchen table where issues could be talked about in a relaxed and calm manner.

“The second important thing to do for those involved is to get solid, independent and expert advice in relation to all of the issues involved before making their will, and then when the will is made, to make sure that all family members know where the will is kept,” said Anne Mitchell.

She said that almost everyone across rural West of Ireland knew of very awkward family situations and disputes that arose with succession issues where a will had not been made.

Anne Mitchell, also advised that while involving a solicitor wasn’t a legal requirement in terms of making a valid will, it would still be advisable to do so in most cases.

Galway IFA Chair, Stephen Canavan, advised any landowner in Galway who was in the process of making a will – or even thinking about doing so – to attend Monday night’s meeting.

“We have organised this with the aim of providing excellent professional advice for farm families across the county and with answering any queries that people might have on succession issues,” said Stephen Canavan.

Pictured: Galway IFA Farm Family Representative, Anne Mitchell