The visit, which involved members of the European Council of Young Farmers (CEJA), have seen young farmers from Europe and the UK meet to debate and establish the next generation’s position on Brexit.
The two-day event, supported by Defra, Massey Ferguson and the Crop Protection Association, involved workshops and concluded with a crucial seminar called Brexit and Beyond.
NFYFC and the NFU share joint-membership of CEJA, and with policy and trade changes imminent, opportunities and collaboration for next generation farmers both at home and in Europe are rife for discussion.
CEJA’s President Jannes Maes said: “In these times of change, it is of paramount importance that we keep an open dialogue among young and future farmers across Europe. British young farmers have been longstanding and valued members of CEJA and we look forward to continuing this fruitful collaboration, regardless of what Brexit might bring.”
The bid to host the event was approved by the NFYFC Council, the NFU and CEJA last year and NFYFC Chairman Lynsey Martin said it was essential to get young farmers talking. “Collaboration and forward-thinking discussions with European young farmers are important during this time of change. Our CEJA membership has stood the next generation in good stead for Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) considerations and we relish mutual support during the consultation and implementation of a British agricultural policy. Brexit is as much of a concern for European young farmers as it is for us, so this is a great opportunity for scene-setting, debate and discussion.”
Richard Bower, Chair of the NFU Next Generation Forum said: “Our organisations have always enjoyed a close relationship and the joint-membership of CEJA has been productive and enjoyable. We want to ensure future next generation collaboration and to maintain a close, working relationship with European young farmers.”
The event was supported by Massey Ferguson and Campbell Scott, Massey Ferguson, Director Marketing Services and PR, Europe and Middle East said: “Massey Ferguson is fully-focused on the requirements of the new generation of farmers and promoting the growth of their farming businesses. As a principal partner of CEJA and a key sponsor of the Young Farmers movement in the UK and Eire, we are very pleased to support this collaborative discussion forum at Stoneleigh Park.”
