AGM to focus on next generation

A discussion panel at the forthcoming Argyll and the Islands regional annual general meeting (AGM) will focus on the views of the next generation of farmers and crofters.

The AGM will take place on Friday January 10, starting at 11am in Tarbert Bowling Club. The morning session will see the regional AGM and the presentation of the Argyll and the Islands Stalwart Award.

The highlight of the afternoon will be a panel session chaired by the region’s Next Generation Committee representative Ian Dickson from Scalpsie Farm, Bute.

Panel members include: Jenny Baillie, regional manager, Scottish Association of Young Farmers’ Clubs (SAYFC); Jenny Brunton, policy manager, NFU Scotland; Ian Davidson, national adviser, Scottish Land Matching Service; Colin Ferguson, chairman, NFU Scotland Next Generation Committee; and John McCulloch, chairman, SAYFC West Rural and Agri Affairs Committee.

Regional board chairman John Dickson said: ‘As an industry, we need to focus on how we support the next generation of farmers and crofters to get them into the sector.

‘At NFUS, our challenge is how we encourage the next generation to also get involved in the union.

‘This panel will be an opportunity for members to hear views on the future for the next generation of farmers and crofters in what are going to be challenging times.

‘I would encourage those who are coming along to bring a young person with them – maybe a son, daughter, nephew or niece who is involved in your family business.

‘We want to ensure young people have a bright future in the sector and want them to become involved in agriaffairs, policy lobbying and NFU Scotland.

‘To help get the next generation involved, NFUS farming or crofting membership now entitles family members to be signed up at no extra cost.’