£30,000 funding package for young farmers

A £30,000 funding package has been agreed to provide agricultural training opportunities for young farmers and other young people working in the rural economy.

The grant was agreed during a meeting between the Scottish Association of Young Farmers Clubs (SAYFC) and minister for young people, Aileen Campbell.

Confirming the funding, Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said: “I am firmly committed to helping increase opportunities for young farmers and other young people in rural communities, and I recognise the valuable work of the SAYFC.

“That is why I am pleased to be able to give the organisation a grant of £30,000 towards the delivery of agricultural and rural training and development activities for its members.”

Today’s announcement followed last week’s news that the Scottish Government was withdrawing its annual £66,000 grant to the SAYFC.

Among those voicing concern at the cut was Orkney’s SNP candidate for the forthcoming Scottish Parliament election, Professor Donna Heddle.

Professor Heddle, a former Young Farmer herself, wrote to Aileen Campbell about the decision, urging a rethink.

Speaking earlier this week, she said: “In a community where we have active clubs in Harray, Sandwick and East Mainland, with over 100 members in total, Young Farmers play a key role in developing new generations of not only farmers but of young men and women making valuable contributions to Orkney life in general.

“It is crucial that the Scottish Government reconsiders this funding decision.”