Spotlight on farming and rural issues at Kilmory

A number of pressing rural topics were discussed during a meeting between farming union leaders and bosses from Argyll and Bute agencies.

 

From NFU Scotland, chief executive Scott Walker, Argyll and the Islands regional board chairman John Dickson and regional manager Lucy Sumsion were in attendance, across the table from Cleland Sneddon, Argyll and Bute Council chief executive, and Greg Moschonas, council economic growth officer.

 

Also attending the meeting on April 23 were Jennifer Nicoll, area manager, and John Jackson, account manager, both Highlands and Islands Enterprise.

 

Top of the agenda at the Kilmory meeting was the recent decision by First Milk to sell its Campbeltown and Arran Creameries. Another subject that is certain to have an impact on Argyll's farmers is Brexit and its implications for the region were under discussion.

 

Farming as a way of life is getting no easier in the modern world and Brexit adds another layer of uncertainty to the mix. In light of this, the pressing matter of mental health and well-being within the agricultural community was raised, along with education and training for young people in Argyll.