FEED ASSURANCE
The Food Fortress scheme developed with the Queen’s University Institute for Global Food Security gives NIGTA a world leading position in the field of feed assurance. This program has just completed a 6 month pilot run and has proven highly successful and cost effective.
A summary of results is available for all participants to view on this website.
EU REGULATION
NIGTA is lobbying effectively on a number regulatory issues at both local and European level. Of particular concern are the proposals on Official Controls which would involve our industry paying for all the costs of regulatory controls. With the support of our local MEP’s we have made our opposition known and are working to influence the outcome of this regulation as it passes through the committee process in Brussels.
ENVIRONMENT
Our association has been an active contributor to the work of the Greenhouse Gas Action Group. This project has produced a plan for sustainable farm production based on efficient use of inputs providing a model for responsible growth and more profitable farming.
The Industrial Emissions Directive (IED) Regulations are to be extended to smaller feed milling businesses and NIGTA has been working with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency to help guide this process and minimise the impact on businesses.
FEED ADVISERS REGISTER
Well over 100 fieldstaff from the Northern Ireland supply trade have joined the AIC Feed Advisers register and have committed to a program of training and continuous professional development. They will be equipped to deliver the key messages relating to efficient use of inputs and to help their customers develop more profitable and sustainable farm businesses.
FARM ASSURED CEREALS
NIGTA is a partner with the Ulster Farmers Union in ownership of the quality assured cereals scheme. This has been improved and upgraded for the 2014 harvest and will continue to progress towards full accreditation.
GOING FOR GROWTH
The Agri-food Strategy Groups’ “Going for Growth” report has set an ambitious target for development in terms of production, employment and export sales. Our association have played an active part in this project and is committed to work towards the vision laid out in “Going for Growth”.
