By Aimee Mahony, NFU Chief Poultry Adviser
As it’s my first column of 2025 may I wish you all a Happy New Year. It seems only right to reflect on the highs and lows of the previous twelve months before looking forward to what 2025 has to offer.
In March 2024 the NFU elected a new national poultry board with James Mottershead taking on a second term as board chair and Will Raw being newly elected as the vice chair.
It’s impossible to avoid mentioning the political turmoil thrust upon us in 2024 with a general election and a new government who are still ‘sorting out Ministers’ portfolios’. Although this is the stock answer given when any question is asked regarding future policies, the few announcements that have been made so far have certainly made their mark on the food and farming sector.
The autumn budget was monumental and has dominated headlines since, but the autumn months also brought with them the unwanted return of avian influenza and a timely reminder for stringent biosecurity for all bird keepers in order to protect the national flock.
Securing the next stage of Defra’s fairness in the supply chain review for the egg sector has been a long process but we are now moving into the next phase of consultation which will require sector-wide input in 2025.
A lot of focus has been pointed towards ensuring that the development of assurance scheme standards is based on relevant scientific evidence and this also continues to be a long process not without its challenges. What is important is that the sector works together. It is so easy to favour the blame culture or give in when things are not going so well but standing together in a truly united manner will reap the outcomes producers require and deserve.
The NFU’s sixth Poultry Industry Programme (PIP) launched in October and it’s always pleasing to see that the next generation are oozing with passion for all things poultry. This year the participants are keen to make their mark and represent all sectors and regions across England and Wales. I for one will be following their journey as they complete the year-long programme of events and go on to what I’m sure will be to achieve great things.
With 2024 bringing its fair share of challenges, it’s difficult to see how some of these, especially those outlined above, will not spill over into this year. However, the NFU is well positioned to continue supporting the work of our poultry members and those in the wider sector. Your input will be key and we must all work together to ensure the sector can thrive rather than just survive.