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Banking industry

Winter Fair Returns to Northern Ireland After Two-Year Absence

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

The 35th Royal Ulster Winter Fair, sponsored by Danske Bank, was held at the Eikon Centre, Balmoral Park, marking its welcome return after a two-year hiatus due to Covid restrictions. The event gathered farmers, dairy enthusiasts, and industry specialists to network, do business, and celebrate the best of Northern Ireland's dairy industry. Amidst the festivities, local exhibitors made significant contributions, including the Baxters and Seamus Gunn, who showcased top-performing dairy cattle.

Key Takeaways:

  • Stewart and Nyree Baxter took several awards in the Ayrshire classes, including first and second in the Cow in Milk class and the Exhibitor Bred Prize.
  • Seamus Gunn from Derrylin won multiple class prizes, including the Cow in Milk or Calf class with his high-yielding cow, Ernevale Destry Triuna, which produced a minimum of 50,000kgs in its lifetime.
  • The partnership between the Winter Fair and Danske Bank has continued for 35 years, with the bank serving as the sole sponsor.
  • Agriculture Minister Edwin Poots emphasized the importance of the agri-food sector, citing its £2.23 billion total gross output in 2021, with dairy being the largest contributor.
  • Dairy farmers have faced challenges, including variable milk prices and increasing production costs, but the industry is showing signs of recovery, with farm gate prices increasing.
  • The consultation on Future Agricultural Policy Proposals for Northern Ireland aims to develop better support measures for the agricultural sector.
  • The popularity of grass-based farming is evident, with 30% increase in grass seed sales in the past season, and ongoing research into multi-species swards to improve their performance under Northern Ireland conditions.

Statistics:

  • The 35th Royal Ulster Winter Fair attracted numerous exhibitors and visitors, marking the event's return after a two-year absence.
  • £2.23 billion: The total gross output of Northern Ireland's agriculture sector in 2021.
  • 30%: The increase in grass seed sales in the past season, with farmers taking advantage of favorable weather conditions.
  • 2.4 billion litres: The amount of milk produced by Northern Ireland's dairy industry in 2021.
  • 667 million: The output value of Northern Ireland's dairy sector in 2021.

Sources:

  • Danske Bank
  • Edwin Poots, Agriculture Minister
  • Baxters, local exhibitors
  • Seamus Gunn, Derrylin
  • David Linton, Regional Manager for NI for Barenbrug
  • David Patterson, Agronomist
  • Barenbrug
  • AFBI (Agricultural and Food Biosciences Institute)

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