UUP's Carmichael demands 'common sense' funding packages for YFCU

Mr Robert Carmichael, the East Londonderry Ulster Unionist Party Association Chairman, has called on the Stormont Farming Minister to use the Assembly summer recess to set aside “much-needed, common sense funding packages” for the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster. 

   Speaking on behalf of the UUP association, Mr Carmichael added: “Past Ministers’ decisions recognise the important role which the YFCU has in our farming community and also emphasises the significant part which the organisation plays in preparing our young people for a career in the agricultural and rural sectors. 

   “As an UUP association, we will be lobbying to ensure these common sense funding packages will continue as they will secure the organisation’s position in the farming community in the short term. 

   “However, the Farming Minister needs to go a step further and issue a firm commitment that in the long-term, his Department will ring-fence the necessary funding to secure the role of the YFCU for generations to come. 

   “The Clubs not only play a key role in the agricultural community, but they also have a vital part to play in maintaining the identity and existence of many rural communities. 

   “Such dedicated funding packages for the YFCU would also allow Clubs to develop even closer links with our schools and colleges so that students of all ages gained a more in-depth understanding of the vital role which our agricultural community plays in the life of society. 

   “While past packages were great news, even better news would be a commitment to the long-term financial security of the YFCU,” said Mr Carmichael.