Luxembourg’s business sectorsAgriculture
Interview with Marc Jacobs
Marc Jacobs, the Deputy Director of the agricultural youth association LLJ (Lëtzebuerger Landjugend a Jongbaueren) who is responsible for the promotional initiative “Fro de Bauer”, provides general information on the profession of a farmer.
You started the informational campaign “Fro de Bauer!”. What do you aim to achieve with this initiative? How do you take stock?
The slogan literally translates to “Ask the farmer!”. It aims to encourage consumers to ask farmers about their jobs and their products. The starting point could be a simple conclusion. “Why are the streets that run through agriculturally used areas so dirty during the corn harvest?” It is enough to point out that this time period involves a lot of work for farmers and that the annoying dirt on the streets is not the result of negligence. Broadly speaking, it’s about re-establishing social relationships and promoting a dialogue. We use different information channels and media to do so, e.g. the internet and Facebook. However, we also organise direct contact, for example as part of the event “Agricultural land in the city”. We have received very positive feedback. Even though this isn’t the primary goal, this initiative can support direct sales of agricultural products. The short paths between consumer and producer are becoming more important and are evolving…
What problems do young farmers face?
We of course deal with the topic of sales prices and the stock market, but that isn’t exactly specific to the grand duchy. In general, it should be noted that this job is multi-faceted. We work outside in nature – for nature. But aside from cultivation, animal breeding, and using agricultural machines, we also have to deal with “paperwork”. You should have sound accounting knowledge and potentially be able to operate and maintain machines. Additionally, you will be required to handle environmental concerns and keep an eye on evolving laws. Every working day is different.
Are the educational opportunities in this area sufficient, particularly those at technical secondary schools?
The quality of educational opportunities is high. When I was a student, courses were already available in the subjects of Economics, Law, and Computer Science. I know that the classes have improved since and have evolved. It should also be mentioned that you can specialise in certain areas (animal breeding, vegetable cultivation, etc.).
One important question remains: Can you really become a farmer if you’re not the son or daughter of a farmer?
The necessary investments for purchasing land and farms remain very high, which explains why the younger generation finds an easier way into the profession if they take on the operations of their family’s farming business. Especially because the number of medium-sized operations is increasing. As an example, a friend of mine entered into an agreement with a farmer who was retiring and looking for a successor. The seller made compromises during the negotiations, because it was important to him for his business to continue and to prevent the abandonment of this project close to his heart. Larger farming businesses also offer jobs for employees, including those who have attained a good diploma. They can support the owner, help make important decisions (production decisions, scheduling, etc.), and also become a partner in the medium-term. It is possible to find jobs with agricultural cooperatives and companies that carry out services in conjunction with agricultural production.