Retiring UFU CEO Wesley Aston.
From his roots on a small beef and sheep farm in Co. Armagh, Wesley Aston began a career with the Ulster Farmers’ Union which has spanned more than three decades of profound change across the industry. This week, the outgoing chief executive bids a final farewell to the organisation he helped to shape over 35 years.
He joined the organisation in 1991 as a policy officer, working across the fish farming, pig and poultry committees at a time when Northern Ireland agriculture was navigating significant structural shifts. By 1995, he had risen to policy director, also taking on the role of secretary to the dairy committee during the pivotal de-regulation of milk marketing boards.
In 2015, following years at the heart of policy development and industry representation, he was appointed chief executive, a role in which he has helped steer the UFU through some of the most challenging and transformative periods in Northern Ireland’s modern farming history.
In his time with the UFU, Wesley has been centrally involved in the formation of key industry organisations such as AgriSearch; Animal Health and Welfare NI (AHWNI); and most recently Sustainable Ruminant Genetics (SRG). He also helped the UFU with their centenary celebrations in 2018, marking a significant milestone for the organisation.
“I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on what has happened, but more importantly to look forward,” said the departing chief executive, marking his retirement.
“There have always been challenges historically including BSE, foot-and-mouth disease, direct support reforms, Brexit and Covid-19.
“Today, we face issues such as greenhouse gas emissions, Lough Neagh, the ongoing scourge of bovine TB and the spread of new livestock diseases.
“However, there are also significant opportunities.”
Mr Aston said climate change and geopolitical instability serve as a stark reminder that there will always be a fundamental need for food.
“It is essential that we take these opportunities to develop a strategic, collaborative approach between industry and government,” he said.
“One that justifies and secures the necessary funding and develops policies to improve production efficiencies, ensuring a profitable and sustainable farming industry in Northern Ireland.
“We have already begun this process with the introduction of major, Northern Ireland-wide schemes for both soils and ruminant genetics, with almost £100 million committed by the Northern Ireland Executive.”
The retiring CEO emphasised how it is essential that this work continues and is developed further.
“I have never been more optimistic about the future of our farming industry,” he stated. “It is an industry to be proud of.”
“UFU has a fantastic team from our local group members and staff, our policy committees right through to our Presidential Team and headquarters staff and it has been an honour and a privilege to have worked with them all across the years.”
In his closing remark, Mr Aston encouraged farmers to get involved in shaping the future of agriculture here in Northern Ireland.
“Make sure you are a member of your UFU and play your part in securing a prosperous future for our next generation of farmers.”
