Young People in Agri: Daniel McElwaine

Sparking an interest in farming during secondary school, Daniel McElwaine from Fivemiletown aspires to qualify and build a career in the agriculture sector. Currently studying A-Levels in Biology, Physics and Agriculture, Daniel also works on a local pig farm, demonstrating the dedication and work ethic driving the next generation of farmers.

​Although farming does not run in his family, Daniel's father established a suckler cow and breeding ewe enterprise, proving that hard work and determination, not just generations of tradition, can also build a successful future in agriculture.

​“I enjoy the fact that everyday is different, that there is always another way of doing something so you are always learning something new.

​“Farming is enjoyable because of the rewarding nature of seeing the hard work bring benefits.”

​While passionate about the agricultural industry, Daniel recognises the difficulties facing the next generation, including rising costs, lack of support and tightening legislation, all of which contribute to the ongoing challenges farmers face.

​Further commenting on this, the young farmer added, “with the cost of land, machinery, and livestock so high, it is difficult for a young person who is not already involved in farming to get involved.

“If a young person does not have an older relative with a farm that they may inherit, then they are going to struggle to be able to farm for themselves and not just work for someone in agriculture.”

​Opportunities for young people can be limited on both sides of the industry, whether starting out on their own or trying to work for others.

​“On the other hand with the rising cost of wages, many farms cannot afford to take on a young person to start to farm, even if they neededthe help.”

​Beyond recruitment issues, Daniel believes these pressures are feeding into a broader question about the future of farming.

​“I think the future of small farms is at risk due to lack of interest from young people. Farming can be very labour intensive at times and with a lack of young people having an interest in farming, an ageing workforce will struggle to keep up with thelifestyle”

​Alongside these pressures, Daniel believes there is still a balance of experience and innovation within farming. While older generations bring valuable experience and traditional knowledge, Daniel praises the younger generation of farming for their willingness “to trial new things that may or may not work.”

​He also pointed to a growing disconnect between the farming and public understanding of the industry.

​“I think a lot of people have a negative image on farming due to a lack of information. Farming tends to get blamed for lots of issues in the world such as climate change and pollution of waterways.”

​Daniel was asked if there was one thing he would change about how people view the farming industry, and his response is one that would resonate with many farmers.

​“That farmers can be concerned about animal welfare at the same time as sending animals into the food chain. Animals are well looked after and cared for for the entire duration of their life.”

​With farmers often under constant scrutiny, it is important for outsiders to understand that their lives revolve around their livestock. They devote their time and effort to maintaining farms they have worked hard to build, while also helping to keep the nation fed.

​Concluding, Daniel commented: “Whilst the lifestyle is difficult, farming is one of the most rewarding jobs there is. Farming provides a level of pride and satisfaction from completing your work that simply cannot be gained from any other jobs.

​Daniel's advice to young farmers is simple: “Look after the farm when you have it and try to improve it for the next generation after you.”