The ratification of major rule changes in the structures of the IFA by its national council last week has signalled the beginning of the presidential race to replace John Dillon.
At the centre of the structural reform is a new voting system to elect the president, with the old system of one-branch, one-vote being replaced by voting which reflects the number of members in a branch.
Michael Dowling, former general secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Food, had proposed in the reform document he drew up for the organisation, that the post of IFA deputy president be abolished.
However, the national council rejected this and the position, held by Ruaidhrí Deasy, remains. Mr Deasy is considered the front-runner for Mr Dillon's job in this, the IFA's 50th anniversary year. The organisation was set up by Mr Deasy's father and his supporters.
Also seeking the post will be Louth beef farmer and entrepreneur Raymond O'Malley, who is a former chairman of the IFA's national beef committee and current Leinster vice-president.
He ran against Mr Dillon for the top job four years ago as did another of the potential candidates this time round, Pádraig Walsh from Co Laois, the national treasurer.
A former president of Macra na Feirme, the young farmers' organisation, Mr Walsh also held the influential position of national chairman of the IFA's national dairy committee.
While the nomination date for the post of president is months away, unofficial canvassing has already started with the main contenders already seeking support. Voting is likely in early December and the new president will take over in January 2006.