Sinn Féin TD Claire Kerrane has been announced this week as the party’s new spokesperson for Agriculture, Food and Rural Development.
Deputy Kerrane is moving into the role following eight years as the party’s Social Protection spokesperson, having worked on issues such as supports for Family Carers and Lone Parents.
Kerrane, who grew up and is currently living on a farm in west Roscommon, says she was proud to take on the role.
“Having lived on a farm all my life, I know the importance of sustaining our family farms. I am also well aware of how hard farmers have to work for a price that does not match the quality of their produce,” she said.
“I am looking forward to getting stuck into the role and carrying on the good work of my colleague Matt Carthy in engaging with farmers, producers and representative groups across rural Ireland as part of my work.
“I also look forward to continuing my role as spokesperson on Rural Development, which I have held for the past two years”.
Kerrane highlighted the importance of agriculture to rural economies.
“We know that rural communities have been left behind as a result of decisions make by successive out-of-touch Governments. I will continue to advocate for our rural communities and call for effective policies and action to ensure these areas can thrive,” she concluded.
