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The Dairy Council for Northern Ireland has published the second annual EU Sustainable Dairy Fact Book, in conjunction with the EU and the European Milk Forum. This year’s publication focuses on the Carbon Footprint of the Northern Ireland Dairy sector, and the proactive approach the sector is taking to lower emissions and mitigate against climate change.
Research indicates that the carbon footprint of dairy farms in Northern Ireland is appreciably lower than those of dairy farms in many other regions of Northwest Europe.
The DAIRYMAN INTERREG Project, a significant piece of work involving some 132 dairy farms across 10 regions of Northwest Europe, indicated that the average Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions on Northern Ireland dairy farms was the second lowest in the study, an indication of the significant achievement by Northern Ireland dairy farmers.
The fact book showcases the cutting edge research on carbon sequestration being carried out at the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) and shines a light on the investments and measures taken by local farmers to lower their carbon footprint by investing in renewable energy and making other efficiency measures.
The most recent statistics from DAERA show that total emissions (excluding sequestration) related to milk production decreased from a population average of 1,927 (CO2e/kg ECM) in 1990 to 1,272 (CO2e/kg ECM) in 2017. Whilst milk production in the dairy sector has expanded by 73% since 1990, the total number of dairy cows over this period has increased by only 14%, meaning this improvement in carbon footprint has been driven by substantial increases in milk yield per cow.
Dr Mike Johnston MBE, Chief Executive of the Dairy Council NI says the local dairy sector recognises the climate challenge, “Over the past few years there has been increased public awareness about climate change and the actions that we, as a society, need to take to tackle those risks. The dairy sector recognises the urgent need to adapt and change our practices.
“This publication celebrates the fantastic work already being done in this area. The important work at Agri-food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) develops the science behind the application of technology and management practices on farms that will reduce emissions, and demonstrates how these are being implemented on dairy farms throughout Northern Ireland.
“It also displays the investment by Northern Ireland dairy processors to reduce their emissions, and demonstrates the positive impact that innovation and effective management is having in reducing the dairy sector’s carbon footprint.”
Local farmers Hall Donnell from Ballymagorry, Strabane, and Hugh Harbison from Aghadowey, Coleraine are featured as case studies, showcasing on-farm efficiency measures implemented to lower carbon footprint, and sustain and protect the land for future generations.
Aghadowey farmer Hugh Harbison, whose farm provides a case study in the EU Sustainable Dairy Fact Book commented, “My generation is much more environmentally aware. They want tasty food that has low food mileage and low carbon footprint.”
The fact book also features case studies on the work being carried out by local dairy companies to address their environmental impact, and an interview with Brian Lindsay, Development Director of the Dairy Sustainability Framework. World-renowned experts in the world of nutrition, Professor Adam Drewnowski and Professor Ian Givens, also discuss the important contribution of dairy foods to the Northern Ireland diet.
The 2019 fact book is available on the Dairy Council website at the following link: WWW.DAIRYCOUNCIL.CO.UK
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With the closed period for spreading slurry coming to an end at midnight on 31 January, the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) is reminding farmers to take extra care when working with slurry.
Mixing slurry can be a particularly dangerous job as slurry gas is released very quickly, and in large quantities, as soon as the mixing starts.
Slurry gas is a mixture of gases, including the extremely poisonous gas, hydrogen sulphide. Even a low concentration of hydrogen sulphide can knock out your sense of smell so you won’t even know it’s there. At higher concentrations you will rapidly find it harder to breathe and become confused - and at certain concentrations, just one breath can kill.
The first 30 minutes are the most dangerous, so it is important for farmers to leave the shed as soon as mixing starts - and to stay out for at least 30 minutes.
Reminding farmers of the dangers of mixing slurry, Camilla Mackey, Principal Inspector of HSENI’s farm safety team, said: “Before starting any job on the farm, including slurry mixing, take time to stop, think and safely plan the work ahead.
“Keep children and animals far away during the slurry mixing process, ventilate the area and mix on a windy day where possible. ALWAYS remove livestock from the shed before starting to mix. Stay out of the building for at least 30 minutes after the mixing starts and every time you move the pump or change the direction of mixing.
“Please be aware that if a tank is mixed before the end of the closed period and is then mixed again before the tank is emptied that gas can build up again even within a day or two and it is essential to stay out of the shed for at least 30 minutes after mixing starts once again.
“Do not take any chances when mixing slurry. As the closed period comes to an end I urge farmers to reflect on the safe slurry mixing code, remembering that just one breath can kill.”
The slurry mixing code:
keep children away from the area at all times when working with slurry
if possible, mix on a windy day
open all doors
take all animals out of the building before starting to mix slurry
use outside mixing points first
if slats are removed, cover exposed areas of the tank beside the pump/mixer to stop anything falling in
start the pump/mixer – then get out and stay out of the building for as long as possible - at least 30 minutes
any time you have to go into the building try to make sure that another adult knows what you are doing and can get help if necessary
if you have to re-enter to move the pump or change the direction of the pump, leave the building as soon as this is done – do not go back in for as long as possible – at least another 30 minutes
Never:
rely on filter type facemasks
use gas monitors as a substitute for working safely
have naked flames near slurry, as slurry gas mixture is flammable
stand close to the exhaust of a vacuum tanker when it is being filled
If you find someone has been overcome during slurry mixing, if possible, stop the pump and get the person to fresh air but do not put yourself at risk in the process. If breathing is weak or stopped, artificial respiration may be effective. Contact the emergency services and seek medical attention immediately.
For more information about working safely with slurry or general farming health and safety issues please contact the HSENI helpline on: 0800 0320 121 or visit the farm safety topic page on the HSENI website: www.hseni.gov.uk
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Former Newry and Mourne Director of District Development, Gerard McGivern in his present role as Chairman of the Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC) has said that a new narrative must be created regarding the lifestyles followed by people in the 21st century, adding “As part of this our red meat sector must communicate a balanced message to UK consumers, one that reflects the strong commitment of Northern Ireland’s livestock farmers to produce beef and lamb of the highest quality in a sustainable manner.”
The LMC recently hosted a visit to its headquarters’ on the outskirts of Lisburn for members of the Guild of Agricultural Journalists of Ireland (Northern Section). A wide range of subjects were discussed.
Commission CEO Ian Stevenson explained that the red meat sector contributes £1.2 billion to the local economy on an annual basis. This works out at around 25% of the total sales generated by all of Northern Ireland’s food processers.
The Commission representative reflected on the success generated by Bord Bia’s Origin Green campaign in the Republic of Ireland. He commented “Replicating this work, in the context of Northern Ireland, is an aspiration that has tremendous merit. But above all else locally produced food has a tremendously positive story to tell. And it must be told in the most effective manner, here at home, in the rest of the UK and further afield.”
LMC Chairman Gerard McGivern stressed the need for the red meat industry to be represented at the very heart of whatever future food marketing arrangements are put in place for Northern Ireland.
Red meat consumption
Ian Stevenson referenced the pressure that had been on put on red meat consumption levels in the UK over the past 12 months. He said:
“UK consumers are choosing to eat meat less often. Consumption levels were stagnant for most of last year. This was an important factor in driving down producer prices for much of this period.
“Lamb consumption levels are particularly price sensitive. Demand drops significantly if farmgate returns increase by any extent.
“However, we know that 92% of local consumers eat red meat on a regular basis. But they also want to know that it is produced in a sustainable manner and that it can contribute to a healthy diet.
“LMC works closely with retailers to communicate a direct message to consumers, particularly during Beef Week and Love Lamb Week.”
“We are also fully aware of the raised public profile that has given to veganism and non meat alternatives in the diet over recent times. Our job is to communicate a balanced message, where red meat is concerned.
“But it is also a fact that many forms of vegan diet are not nutritionally balanced at all. In fact, they are very unhealthy.
But according, to Ian Stevenson it’s not all bad news. He commented “Consumption of red meat is set to increase dramatically across most of South East Asia. This trend has been fuelled by the growing prosperity levels now apparent across the region.
“Beef from Northern Ireland will soon be heading for China. Opportunities for local processers to supply this and other markets in South East Asia will allow them to secure better overall prices for the carcasses they are working with.”
LMC management wants public bodies in Northern Ireland to procure more locally produced beef and lamb. It is felt that the new Stormont Executive can help in this regard. Gerard McGivern explained “We see no reason why the various public departments operating in Northern Ireland cannot specify the supply of farm quality assured meat and lamb only when it comes to the setting of the relevant food procurement contracts.
“Lamb fares particularly badly when it comes to local public sector procurement practises.”
Summing up Ian Stevenson added “LMC is well placed to play its part as the red meat industry prepares to have its say in the development of a new food marketing body for Northern Ireland.
“The beef and sheep industries are on the cusp of major change. However, LMC is ready to fully support both sectors going forward.”
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Karen Hughes, Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) has announced the opening of entries for the Balmoral Show 2020.
Entries are open from Tuesday 18th February and will close on Wednesday 18th March at 5pm.
Prize Schedules are now available and all entries can be made online at www.balmoralshow.co.uk
This year’s Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank will return to Balmoral Park from Wednesday 13th May until Saturday 16th May 2020.
For the latest updates on the Show visitwww.balmoralshow.co.uk or follow Balmoral Show on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
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The Balmoral Show is encouraging green-fingered enthusiasts to enter the popular ‘Fill Your Boots’ competition at this year’s Balmoral Show.
Kendall Glenn, Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) commented, “We are on the look-out to find the most imaginative floral arrangement using a pair of wellies. This year the theme is to create a display showcasing 'The natural environment around you' so we are encouraging entrants to give it some welly put their best boots forward!”
Sponsored by Hillmount Garden Centre and 3T Power, the closing date for entries is Monday 13th April 2020 at 5pm. To find out more, visit www.BALMORALSHOW.CO.UK
This year’s Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank will return to Balmoral Park from Wednesday 13th May until Saturday 16th May 2020. For latest updates follow Balmoral Show on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
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ABP has announced a further three-year partnership deal with the Balmoral Show.
ABP processes beef and lamb in Newry and at Lurgan. It is the only meat processor to sponsor the province’s largest agricultural event at Platinum level.
Commenting on the partnership which extends to 2022, ABP Northern Ireland Managing Director George Mullan said, “ABP processes farm quality assured beef and lamb which is supplied by approximately 5,000 farm families. We have been meeting and greeting our suppliers and customers at the Balmoral Show for the past 20 years. Our sponsorship investment in the Balmoral Show reflects the company’s commitment to supporting a sustainability local agri-economy. We see the Balmoral Show as an ideal opportunity to engage with our suppliers and key stakeholders on the way forward for Northern Ireland’s red meat sector. We look forward to exchanging views and sharing ideas.
Thanking ABP for their continued support, President of the Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS), Billy Martin said, “The RUAS is delighted that ABP has renewed their contract as Platinum Sponsors of the Balmoral Show. As one of the top players in the agri-food industry, ABP will continue to sponsor the Limousin, British Blonde and Charolais cattle classes as well as the Texel, Suffolk, Beltex and Interbreed Championship sheep classes at this year’s Show.
The Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank will return to Balmoral Park, Lisburn from Wednesday 13th May until Saturday 16th May 2020. ABP will be situated at stand No. B5, Park Central East.
For the latest Balmoral Show news and updates visit www.balmoralshow.co.uk or follow Balmoral Show on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
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The Royal Ulster Agricultural Society’s (RUAS) Annual Meeting took place on Friday 6th March at the Eikon Exhibition Centre, Balmoral Park, Lisburn.
During this year’s Annual Meeting, important Council business was discussed and members had the opportunity to come together and catch up with one another. Guest speaker Trevor Lockhart, Group Chief Executive of Fane Valley Co-operative also addressed Council members at the end of the meeting.
On the day, three new Chairs were elected including Robert McKibbin, Chairman of the Poultry Committee, Crosby Cleland, Chairman of the Show Safety Committee and Alan Armstrong, Chairman of the Winter Fair. In addition to this, Joanne McKinnin, Robert Harkness and Ashley Fleming were elected as Deputy Chairmen of the Poultry, Show Safety and Winter Fair Committees respectively.
Furthermore, 24 RUAS members were elected to Council for a period of three years. Elected members included; Cynthia Aiken, Alan Armstrong, Sam Bell, Barclay Bell, Vaughan Byrne, Dr Sam Campbell, Robin Cherry, Linda Davis, Patricia Erwin, Ashley Fleming, Desmond Gibson, Pauline Gibson, Ian Harvey, Jayne Harkness-Bones, Norma Hoy, Denise Kelso, Eugene Larkin, Jay Lindsay, Alistair McDonald, Robert McKibbin, Geoffrey Ringland, Trevor Shields, Stephen Smith, Alex Woods.
To top off a successful day, James Coburn was presented with the coveted President’s Plate by RUAS President, Billy Martin.
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The annual Balmoral Show has been postponed to later in the year as a result of the Coronavirus crisis.
Speaking on behalf of the RUAS a spokesperson said “The Balmoral Show in partnership with Ulster Bank will be postponed until Wednesday 19th to Saturday 22nd August 2020.
We are currently in uncertain times following the recent outbreak of COVID-19 and the health of our stakeholders and visitors remains our key priority. We will continue to monitor the situation closely."
To keep up to date with the latest Balmoral Show news and developments, visit balmoralshow.co.uk
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The Farm Safety Partnership (FSP) has urged the farming community to exercise extreme care and attention during these very challenging times.
COVID-19 has created an unprecedented situation for everyone in Northern Ireland with severe pressure being placed on our health and emergency services. No-one wants an incident on their farm but at this point in time our health service cannot cope with any additional strain being put on them, therefore the FSP are asking all farmers and their families to please stop and think SAFE before you do any job. This is especially important considering that children are out and about on our farms now more frequently and with our older family members potentially self-isolating this can put additional strain on families. You must ensure that you do not take any unnecessary risks at this time when working on your farms.
Farming is a vital part of the Northern Ireland structure and economy. Farmers must continue working and producing essential foodstuffs on a daily basis, the FSP recognise this but they are reminding everyone in the community of their commitment to health and safety, and to ensure our farms are safe places to work every day.
Victor Chestnutt, Deputy President of the Ulster Farmers Union (UFU), said: “There is no doubt that our Health Service is under increased pressure at present and is facing challenging times in the days and weeks that lie ahead dealing with patients affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. Therefore, now more than ever it is extremely important that everyone exercises extreme caution when working on farms in order to reduce the likelihood of a serious incident occurring, and this includes children who must be supervised correctly.
“All of our Health Services’ resources and staff will be required in the battle against Covid-19 and we really need to reduce the numbers of people presenting at Hospital Accident and Emergency departments having been involved in an incident on a farm, so please I urge you slow down and exercise extreme caution.”
Further information on health and safety issues surrounding slurry, animals, falls and equipment (SAFE) can be found at the following links on the HSENI Website
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falls-working-safely-height-farms
equipment-working-safely-farm-equipment-and-vehicles
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