Orkney
Regional policy advisor foreword Issues of national importance and the efforts made by NFU Scotland will always grab the headlines. In particular, the Union’s continued lobbying in relation to changes to inheritance tax, but more locally, we continue to be involved in Orkney issues and developments which are of equal importance.
The continuing management if resident Greylag Geese is, and will continue to be, high on the list of priorities for 2025. It is widely felt inroads are being made to reduce resident bird populations, but it is vital we continue to receive funding from Scottish Government.
Relationships with key local stakeholders such as: Orkney Islands Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Developing the Young Workforce Orkney and UHI Orkney, continue to be developed for the benefit of the Orkney farming industry, particularly the next generation of farmers, crofters and agriculturalists.
Recruiting new members will be a key focus this year to ensure the Union’s strength in Orkney continues. Membership is not restricted to active farmers, but is available to family members, those people that work in the wider farming industry, professionals and the newly launched Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC) members category.
As well as local focus, we continue to ensure Orkney’s voice is heard in the ongoing reform of Scottish Agricultural Policy. This includes much-needed change to the Less Favoured Areas Support Scheme, ensuring changes benefit not only Orkney farmers, but there are also no unintended consequences impacting the wider industry.
John Laughton
Orkney Regional Policy Advisor
07733 341063
Nicola Tait
Orkney Regional Policy Advisor
07799 424962