Agriculture Minister Michelle McIlveen was west of the Bann, visiting farms in the Strabane area. The Minister visited the beef farm of Derick Donnell before travelling to the dairy farm of Ernie Colhoun
![Minister McIlveen pictured with calves on a farm in Strabane](https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/styles/inline-expandable/public/images/daera/news/image.jpeg?itok=O3Ei9Mvq×tamp=1484922551)
Miss McIlveen said: “I am pleased to begin 2017 in Co Tyrone, at the invitation of the Strabane Farming Group, to spend time on these family-run farms.
“Since taking office, it has been important for me to hear first-hand about the issues which impact upon farmers and the rural community. Visiting farm businesses is a great way to do this, and see today’s farmers in action.”
Among the topics discussed were the Farm Business Improvement Scheme – Capital, Bovine TB, Business Development Groups, and general state of dairy farming.
The Minster said: “This was a worthwhile opportunity to listen, to learn and to understand. Many of the concerns farmers have here in Strabane are common right across Northern Ireland.
“In particular, the agricultural businesses in this area are close to the border with the Republic of Ireland. The issue of Brexit is, understandably, high on the agenda.
“To this end, I have made, and continue to make, the case for Northern Ireland – at all levels – to ensure our interests are represented in the negotiations to the leave the European Union.
“The year ahead will bring challenges and opportunities for the agri-food sector, but we are looking to the future with optimism. Our agricultural industry is hugely important to me and I am determined that Northern Ireland develops a globally competitive agri-food industry for future generations.”
The Minister also met with the Strabane Farmers Group – a collective made up of farmers from the wider area.
Miss McIlveen said: “As we look at the bigger picture of global economics, international trade and sectoral change, it is important not to lose sight of those on the ground. As an industry, agriculture is based on our farms and our farmers. They are the foundation and the frontline.
“Today, once again, I appreciate the warmth of the welcome I have received. I am pleased to take this opportunity to engage with farmers about the issues and concerns they have, and outline what my department is doing to assist them.”
Notes to editors:
The Strabane Farming Group was established in 1999 and currently has a membership of approximately 50 dairy, beef, arable and poultry farmers from the surrounding area. They hold monthly meetings during the winter and have gone on various agricultural study tours to different parts of Great Britain and Europe.
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