Westmeath farmers are using 35 years of savings to buy generators for Ukraine

“As farmers, we are hands-on by nature and we knew what a difference it would make to send something tangible like a piece of machinery, rather than just sending the money,” said David Drum, Delvin’s IFA chairman.

“35 years ago our IFA branch bought shares in FBD Versicherung and since then dividends have been paid into our branch bank account. Always aware that we wanted to make a positive difference with this, we decided at our annual general meeting in November to buy generators for the people of Ukraine.

“We received contributions for other members who wanted to do a little bit more so together with the €17,000 in the bank account we were able to get almost €4,000 in additional donations to top up the account,” said Andrew Revington, joint treasurer of the IFA branch.

“In total we have around 22,000 euros that have been paid for the generators and will pay for their transport to Ukraine.

“They were sent out during the week of Christmas and we hope they will bring good hope, warmth and strength.”

Initially, branch members planned to purchase a number of small generators, but after doing some research and hearing from “local people in Ukraine,” they decided to purchase large generators “that could be put to better use.”

“The generators we procure are suitable for schools, apartment blocks, health centers or other community facilities.

“They are put to better use than smaller generators, which could only help a small number of people at a time. We hope over 1,000 people will benefit from it,” said David Drum.

“We wanted to recognize what our branch’s past members have done and inspire other community organizations to try something similar.

European President Roberta Metsola thanked the IFA branch for its contribution, which she says will help bring energy and clean water “to the people under constant barrage to ensure everyday services that we take for granted”.

“I welcome the tangible contribution of the County Westmeath Farmers’ Union of Ireland to answering the European Parliament’s call for ‘Growers of Hope’,” she said.

“The 80 members of the Delvin IFA have shown tremendous generosity, solidarity and compassion. They have decided to donate savings this Christmas to source and buy generators that go directly to Ukrainians in need.

“Due to Russia’s relentless attacks, more than half of Ukraine’s power grid has been damaged, leaving millions without power – in the dark and cold.

“These generators will help keep vital facilities running across the country, powering hospitals, schools, water utilities, emergency shelters, telephone poles and more.”