Board looking to the next generation

9:20am Monday 6th October 2008

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The search is on for a young Welsh dairy farmer to represent the views of the industry in Wales on a new board.

The NFU has launched its next generation dairy board, which will be open to anyone under the age of 35 who owns, manages, or works on a dairy farm and will meet three times a year. Speaking at NFU Cymru’s milk board meeting recently, chairman Mansel Raymond, who farms near Letterston, urged every county in Wales to put forward at least one name to represent Wales on the board.

He said: “I think it is a brilliant idea to introduce younger farmers to the NFU and involve them in the core of our lobbying and political activity.

“The experience and knowledge of our boards at national, regional and county level is invaluable to the NFU’s political strength and credibility.

“However, the creation of the next generation dairy board comes at a time when the average age of a dairy farmer is almost 60 and when many farmers are planning to exit the industry in the next five years.

“We recognise the urgent need to plan for this succession and provide opportunities for young dairy farmers to take an active role in making decisions about their sector.” The next generation dairy board will have eight members (one from each English region and a Welsh representative) and a chairman. The Welsh member will be chosen by NFU Cymru from the names put forward.

The board will discuss key dairy policy issues and have a direct influence on setting NFU dairy policy.

Mr Raymond added: “This is a fantastic opportunity for enthusiastic and forward thinking dairy farmers to witness first hand the lobbying work of the NFU and gain an unique insight into the policy making process.”

Anyone interested in applying should complete an expression of interest application form available from NFU Cymru on 01982 554200.