MOST FARMING YOUNG PEOPLE WANT TO STAY ON THE LAND, BUT…
MOST FARMING YOUNG PEOPLE WANT TO STAY ON THE LAND, BUT…
Long hours, low pay, little or no thanks from the public and a government that seems determined to wreck the industry.
It doesnt look an appealing job description? Not on paper.
But theres more to a career in farming or the countryside than you can write on paper. Thats why, as FARMERS WEEKLYs Next Generation Survey reveals, more than four-fifths of young people in rural areas still want such jobs.
They want them because they love the way of life. Theyve got farming in their blood.
For now, the next generation is taking a long-term view. Theyre holding out for better times. They havent turned their backs on the land.
But young people are angry and worried. Angry at government ignorance and indifference. Worried about the often-pitiful pay and numbingly long hours theyll have to work.
Our youngsters may know there are some things you cant put a price on – but they know, too, you cant live on fresh air. There will come a point when they will have to say: "No more". If they walk away from the industry, they will take with them the drive and the talent that it needs to survive and prosper in the 21st century.
We need to listen to them, address their concerns and do everything possible to help them fulfil their dream to work in rural jobs. The government should listen. Giving more support to new entrants, creating a level playing field within Europe and cutting red tape would be three big first steps forward. Steps which FARMERS WEEKLY has long advocated.
We still have a chance to harvest the next generation of new farm talent. Lets not waste it. Lets give the next generation the opportunities they need to prove themselves.
Lets give the next generation the opportunities they need to do us all proud.