Macra na Feirme

Macra na Feirme (Template:Lang-en), abbreviated MnaF, is an Irish, voluntary, rural youth organisation for young people between the ages of 17 and 35. The organisation consists of a nationwide network of clubs with six key areas of activity: agriculture, sports, travel, public speaking, community involvement and performing arts. Macra na Feirme is committed to the personal development of members and puts emphasis on social interaction and participation.

Macra na Feirme was founded in 1944 by Stephen Cullinan, a rural science teacher. The organisation's original purpose was to provide young farmers with adequate training to ensure their livelihood and to provide an outlet for socialising in rural areas.

Macra na Feirme was adopted as the official title of the organisation in December 1946. 'Macra' means stalwarts or the elite and 'na Feirme' means of the land.

Over 250,000 young people have passed through the ranks of Macra na Feirme. Much has changed since those early days; young people have different priorities now and need new challenges, which Macra today tries to provide.

Currently Macra na Feirme has 9,000 members in 300 clubs. Approximately one-third of Macra members are involved in farming, with males making up 60% of the membership and females 40%.

Macra is a democratic organisation and every member is entitled to air their opinions at club, regional and national level.

Macra na Feirme Established

• The Irish Farmers Journal

• Irish Creamery Milk Suppliers Associateion

• Macra na Tuaithe (now Foroige)

• National Farmers' Association (now IFA)

• Farm Apprenticeship Scheme

• Irish Farm Accounts Co-op (IFAC)

• National Co-operative Farm Relief services Ltd

What does macra provide for members?

Macra na Feirme is a national, voluntary organisation for young people between the ages of 17 and 35. The organisation aims to promote agricultural and rural development and the personal development of its members.

Macra promotes social and cultural education, and the widening of interests among rural youth.

Macra offers members: - A strong national structure - 31 County Executives, National Council, National Executive and a National Office. - Training and support through a professional training staff. - Representation through our role as a Social Partner. - Free Email Address for all members - A full colour Magazine delivered directly to each member. - A Diary and Membership Card. - VHI group discount scheme. - A fully organised national programme of activities. - Public liability insurance for those who organise normal Macra activities.

External links

• Macra.ie - Official website
• Short history