Mayo man elected national secretary of farming organisation

Louisburgh native Richard Mannion has been elected as national secretary of the Irish Natura & Hill Farmers Association (INHFA) following the association's national annual general meeting (AGM) in Tuam.

Mr Mannion takes over in the role from outgoing secretary and fellow Mayo person, Sharon Cosgrove from Bangor Erris who served in the role for the last four years. He has previously served as secretary for the Louisburg/Killeen INHFA Branch and as National Council Representative for Mayo over the last two years.

Speaking after the election of Mr Mannion, INHFA President Vincent Roddy welcomed his election.

“Richard has in his previous roles made significant contributions to the organisation and will be a valuable asset to the INHFA in the coming years,” he said.

The INHFA President also thanked outgoing secretary Sharon Cosgrove who completed her four years as secretary, detailing how Sharon had made an immense contribution during this time and expressed the hope that she will remain involved with the organisation at a national level.

The AGM which was addressed by the Minister for Agriculture Charlie McConalogue saw existing officer Liam Lavelle returned as national treasurer and confirmation of the two Vice Presidents John Joe Fitzgerald and Micheal McDonnell and President Vincent Roddy, who will serve in their positions for another year.

The role of National Chair which is currently held by Donegal native Pheilim Molloy will be decided at the organisation's next National Council meeting this August.