The Courier & Advertiser (Angus and Dundee)
NFUS president is unopposed choice
Highland Perthshire farmer Martin Kennedy was appointed president of NFU Scotland (NFUS) at virtual elections yesterday.
Mr Kennedy, who runs a mixed beef and sheep enterprise with his family at Lurgan Farm near Aberfeldy, has taken on what is regarded as one of the most important jobs in Scottish agriculture.
He was elected unopposed and takes on the role after serving as one of two vice-presidents for the last four years.
“It goes without saying that it is indeed a great honour to be elected president of NFU Scotland,” said Mr Kennedy.
“This is a role I recognise carries a huge responsibility to represent all our members in all sectors of farming and crofting throughout Scotland.”
He added: “Without question we will have some real challenges ahead as we strive to meet not only climate change and environmental targets but also at the same time continue to carry out our fundamental role of food production.
“I see these challenges as opportunities, and provided we implement a positive future agricultural policy, one that’s right for Scotland, then we can create a profitable industry that’s the envy of many across the globe.” Mr Kennedy replaced Dumfries farmer Andrew Mccornick. Former fellow vice-president, Aberdeenshire farmer Charlie Adam, stepped down from his role.
A fiercely fought virtual election was then held for the vice-president roles – with four men standing for two posts.
The jobs were awarded to Aberdeenshire farmer Andrew Connon, who is the union’s north-east regional chairman, and Midlothian farmer Robin Traquair who is the union’s Lothian and Borders regional chairman.
Mr Connon, who hails from North Quilquox, Ythanbank, Ellon, runs a small commercial sheep flock and is part of his family’s farming business at Skilmafilly, Auchnagatt.
He has held serveral jobs in the farming sector, most recently working with Hectare Agritech Ltd which runs the online marketplaces Sellmylivestock and Graindex.
Meanwhile Mr Traquair farms 350 indoor sows taking stock from farrow to finish at Wellington Farm, Millerhill, Dalkeith, with his family.
He is a former national chairman of the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs and sits on the UK Pig Disease Eradication Fund Board.