19 June 2008

2 minute read

Europe

More than 150 dairy farmers from Dumfries and Galloway attended on-farm events last week with debate dominated by the need for the market to continue moving upwards at a pace that matches or exceeds escalating costs.

The events, organised by NFU Scotland, featured farm walks followed by presentations from NFU Scotland Milk Policy Manager Bob Carruth and the UK’s leading quota broker Ian Potter.

Stewartry dairy farmer and NFUS Milk Committee Vice-chairman Kenny Campbell said:

“These have been excellent, informative, well-attended meetings. They have given producers the opportunity to see two very well run dairy units while at the same time getting a flavour of the work NFU Scotland continues to do on the dairy front. The message on costs was heard loud and clear. We, as a Union, will continue bang on the door of other parts of the dairy chain until the prices farmers receive for their milk reach a level that covers their spiralling costs and allows for reinvestment in the business.”

Wigtownshire producer Gary Mitchell, a new entrant to dairy farming and recently elected to the NFUS Milk Committee added:

“These meetings have clearly identified that for well-managed family dairy farms there is a positive future. Milk remains in short supply. If that position is to change then producers need a clear steer that our milk is wanted and that a fair price will be paid. Milk consumption is, for the first time in many years, on the rise and the demand for our quality mature cheese continues to grow. We want to be part of that but others need to be aware that significant increases in farmgate prices are needed for confidence at farm level to return.”

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