UFU is encouraged after meeting with Cranswick

The Ulster Farmers' Union has said it is encouraged following a recent meeting with Cranswick bosses and believes that the company's takeover of the Cullybackey processing plant has the potential to be good for Northern Ireland's pig industry.

UFU president Barclay Bell said the signals from Cranswick are positive.

He added: “They want to do business with farmers in Northern Ireland and I was encouraged to hear that they are keen to speak directly with pig producers and producer groups to build solid local relationships.”

The meeting covered a range of issues including pig welfare, biosecurity, access to the Chinese market, engaging with the NI Pork and Bacon forum and Brexit.

“With the UK preparing to leave the EU, including the single market, there are still many uncertainties that farmers, processors and retailers alike have concerns about, including border arrangements, trade deals and access to labour. It was a welcome opportunity to discuss these and a number of other key issues with senior Cranswick officials that are important to NI’s pig farmers,” added Mr Bell.