Young Farmers' Clubs of Ulster president meets with Prime Minister

“I was delighted to accept the invitation of the Ulster Farmers’ Union as they hosted the Prime Minister, David Cameron,” commented Roberta. “The dairy farm near Ballymena is a family farm owned and run by the Johnston family and Mr Johnston’s sons are members of Randalstown Young Farmers’ Club.”

Roberta continued: “The morning presented a unique opportunity to sit down with the Prime Minister and have a face to face conversation about our concerns for the agri-food industry. With farming here going through tough times, it was an opportunity to stress at the highest level of government, the importance of a successful farming industry to underpin the food industry in Northern Ireland especially for future generations.”

The Prime Minister’s visit was part of his campaign to secure a ‘yes’ vote in the EU referendum in June. Those around the table on Saturday morning were the president and deputy presidents of the Ulster Farmers’ Union, CEO of the Ulster Farmers’ Union, the Agri-Food Strategy Board chairman, the NI Food & Drink Association’s chief executive and Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster president Roberta Simmons.

Roberta continued: “I told the Prime Minister that if we did stay in the EU then the needs of our future generations need to be considered as many are struggling and seeking employment in other professions. I also explained that whatever the outcome of the referendum, ultimately it will be the young farmers who will be living and working with the consequences.”