Following the release of the New Year Honours list issued by King Charles III, the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) would like to congratulate:
- Former UFU president Victor Chesnutt for being awarded an OBE for his services to agriculture;
- Michael Bell, executive director, NIFDA, for being awarded an OBE for his services to the food and drink industry and the economy in Northern Ireland;
- Susan Cunningham, past president NIVA, for being awarded an MBE for services to the veterinary profession in Northern Ireland;
- Ursula Lavery, technical & R&D director Europe, Moy Park, for being awarded an MBE for her services to the agri-food industry and the economy in Northern Ireland;
- Maria Jennings, director Food Standards Agency, for being awarded a CBE for services to public health in Northern Ireland;
- James Morrison, for being awarded an BEM for services to agriculture in Northern Ireland.
Commenting after the announcement Mr Chestnutt said, “I received the tremendous honour of being awarded an OBE on behalf of the entire Northern Ireland agri-food industry. Everyone within farming and local food production works around the clock to produce food to world leading animal health and welfare and environmental standards for consumers. This OBE is recognition of all our hard work, passion and dedication.
“A big thank you must go to the UFU team. They are the backbone of the presidential team, providing help and guidance at any time of the day. The support they provided during my time in the Union was invaluable.
“I would also like to say a big thanks to Rural Support and Life Beyond, and to everyone who provided support and advice in anyway during my time with the Texel Breeders Society. It was appreciated very much.
“I am truly humbled and taken aback by the many people who have took time to send well wishes via phone calls, texts and social media following the release of the New Year Honours list – the response feels like a second award. I am extremely grateful, thank you.”
