The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has welcomed Conall Donnelly at its new chief executive, as he officially took up the role following his appointment in September.
Donnelly succeeds Wesley Aston, who led the organisation for more than a decade
“Northern Ireland’s farmers are facing a period of profound change, but also real opportunity.”
“Following the steady leadership of Wesley Aston at the helm of the Ulster Farmers’ Union, my focus will be on ensuring the union remains a strong, credible voice for farm families and works constructively with government and industry stakeholders to secure a sustainable future for agriculture,” Donnelly said.
The new chief executive previously served as managing director of the UFU’s commercial subsidiary, Countryside Services, and has held roles with the Livestock and Meat Commission and the Northern Ireland Meat Exporters Association.
Donnelly said that he is “committed to ensuring the collective voice of its members is clearly and consistently heard”, adding that he looks forward to working with the team to further strengthen and develop the UFU.
This is in order to deliver for farming families all across Northern Ireland.
Bluetongue movement restrictions
Separately, just last week the UFU “cautiously welcomed” the decision to lift cross-border livestock movement restrictions for breeding and production.
This were introduced as a result of previous bluetongue outbreaks.
The decision to lift restrictions was made by ministers from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), following extensive stakeholder engagement.
The UFU reminded farmers to stay vigilant as bluetongue remains a notifiable disease.
The union has also encouraged members to work closely with their private veterinary practitioner and to continue sourcing animals responsibly.
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