Armagh Dairy Farmer Assumes Presidency of Ulster Farmers’ Union
Source: The DairyNews
Armagh dairy farmer William Irvine has assumed the presidency of the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) for a two-year term, following his election at the union's Annual General Meeting (AGM) held yesterday, May 1st, at CAFRE’s Loughry Campus in Co.Tyrone.
Irvine will lead the UFU's new leadership team, which also includes John McLenaghan, re-elected as deputy president for a second term, and newly elected deputy president Glenn Cuddy.
In his inaugural address, President Irvine underscored the significance of the agriculture industry in Northern Ireland and the challenges faced by farmers due to recent weather conditions. He emphasized that tuberculosis (TB) remains a major concern and stressed the UFU's commitment to eradicating the disease across all hosts.
"The agri-food industry is pivotal to Northern Ireland and the UK, both economically and socially. As farmers and growers, we have a dual responsibility: to ensure sufficient food production for a growing population and to contribute to mitigating climate change," stated Irvine.
He highlighted the ongoing rollout of the new future agriculture policy in Northern Ireland and advocated for much-needed sheep support. Irvine asserted that investing in and supporting the local farming industry, across various sectors including arable, horticulture, and livestock farming, is crucial for a prosperous future.
"Farmers are indispensable for a healthy world and population," Irvine cautioned, urging policymakers to prioritize local agriculture and food security, particularly with a looming general election this year.
Irvine called for increased budgetary allocation for agriculture, stressing the need for unwavering commitment to local farming and food production from all UK parties.
Addressing environmental concerns, Irvine emphasized the importance of sustainable development to enhance farm efficiencies. He criticized current regulations in Northern Ireland, particularly regarding ammonia requirements for farm planning applications.
"It's imperative to support farmers in upgrading their farm businesses to produce sustainable, high-quality food while improving environmental standards," Irvine asserted, advocating for changes in planning regulations to facilitate sustainable development.
President Irvine's message resonated with Northern Ireland's First Minister, Michelle O’Neill, and Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly, both of whom addressed UFU members at the AGM. According to Irvine, farmers are keenly observing political stances on supporting local agriculture as the general election approaches.
"The UFU remains steadfast in advocating for increased support and commitment to local farming and food production, ensuring food security remains a top government priority," Irvine concluded.
Photo by agriland.ie
In his inaugural address, President Irvine underscored the significance of the agriculture industry in Northern Ireland and the challenges faced by farmers due to recent weather conditions. He emphasized that tuberculosis (TB) remains a major concern and stressed the UFU's commitment to eradicating the disease across all hosts.
"The agri-food industry is pivotal to Northern Ireland and the UK, both economically and socially. As farmers and growers, we have a dual responsibility: to ensure sufficient food production for a growing population and to contribute to mitigating climate change," stated Irvine.
He highlighted the ongoing rollout of the new future agriculture policy in Northern Ireland and advocated for much-needed sheep support. Irvine asserted that investing in and supporting the local farming industry, across various sectors including arable, horticulture, and livestock farming, is crucial for a prosperous future.
"Farmers are indispensable for a healthy world and population," Irvine cautioned, urging policymakers to prioritize local agriculture and food security, particularly with a looming general election this year.
Irvine called for increased budgetary allocation for agriculture, stressing the need for unwavering commitment to local farming and food production from all UK parties.
Addressing environmental concerns, Irvine emphasized the importance of sustainable development to enhance farm efficiencies. He criticized current regulations in Northern Ireland, particularly regarding ammonia requirements for farm planning applications.
"It's imperative to support farmers in upgrading their farm businesses to produce sustainable, high-quality food while improving environmental standards," Irvine asserted, advocating for changes in planning regulations to facilitate sustainable development.
President Irvine's message resonated with Northern Ireland's First Minister, Michelle O’Neill, and Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly, both of whom addressed UFU members at the AGM. According to Irvine, farmers are keenly observing political stances on supporting local agriculture as the general election approaches.
"The UFU remains steadfast in advocating for increased support and commitment to local farming and food production, ensuring food security remains a top government priority," Irvine concluded.
Photo by agriland.ie
