Farm Succession & Intergenerational Conversations

Starting the Conversation

What is Farm Succession Mediation?

Farm Succession Mediation is a voluntary process that helps family members communicate effectively, explore options and address concerns relating to the future of the family farm.

Mediation can help families:

• Start conversations that may have been avoided for years.
• Improve communication between generations.
• Explore expectations and concerns openly.
• Discuss future farm ownership and management.
• Consider retirement and transition planning.
• Address issues of fairness and family relationships.
• Identify potential areas of conflict before they escalate.
• Prepare for discussions with solicitors, accountants and agricultural advisors.

The Importance of Intergenerational Conversations

Successful succession planning is about much more than transferring assets. It is about preserving relationships, protecting family harmony and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the farm.

Every family member may have different hopes, concerns and expectations:

• Parents may be concerned about retirement security and fairness.
• Successors may be uncertain about future responsibilities or ownership.
• Non-farming siblings may have concerns about inheritance and inclusion.
• Family members may find it difficult to discuss sensitive issues openly.

Facilitated intergenerational conversations create an opportunity for family members to listen, understand one another's perspectives and plan for the future together.

Why Choose Suirside Mediation?

I am an Accredited Mediator with the Mediators' Institute of Ireland (MII) and have completed specialist training in Farm Succession and Intergenerational Conversations.

In addition, I bring almost twenty years of experience assisting individuals and families with:

• Health and welfare supports
• Pension entitlements
• Fair Deal applications
• Agricultural schemes and entitlements
• Navigating complex family and financial circumstances

This combination of professional expertise and lived experience enables me to understand both the practical and emotional aspects of succession planning.