The newly elected UFU Deputy President team is Ballymoney dairy farmer John Thompson and Draperstown suckler beef and sheep member Harry Sinclair. The new leadership team will serve a two year term in office.
Graham Furey said it was an honour and privilege to lead the UFU in its 90th year. He said it was a great organization representing all types of farm businesses. Graham said he looked forward to working with the Union's committees to develop policy and hear the views of grass roots members. He also urged members to donate to the UFU Africa Appeal.
In his first speech as President, Graham stated that rising costs of production, particularly feed, fertiliser and fuel, were eroding any potential profits from the increase in farm gate prices in some sectors. He recognized that the problems in the pigs and poultry industry were particularly acute. He also commented that milk prices weren't sufficient and beef and sheep prices needed to go beyond where they are now to give producers sustainable returns.
Graham also referred to some of the major challenges which the UFU was continuing to highlight on behalf of farmers. TB, cost and responsibility sharing in animal health and reducing red tape were all mentioned.
Looking at the increase in consumer prices and the general downturn in the economy, Graham said the agri-food industry should use this as an opportunity to re-establish the importance of agriculture with the general public. Our sector supplies fresh, traceable food and the current 'revaluation' of food prices highlights the importance of having a strong local agriculture sector.

Graham also appealed to young people to consider a career in the industry. He said many young people had left the industry but there were now exciting opportunities for land use and the industry needed young people with innovative ideas to meet this challenge. He said he would work closely with young people, including the YFC, to realize the industry's potential.

The UFU's new President highlighted that devolved Government had improved access to decision making for farmers. He pledged to maintain the Union's lead role in representing local farmers in Stormont, London and Brussels; and indeed at the WTO negotiations, where he said Trade Commissioner Peter Mandelson must not sell out EU agriculture and allow the European market to be flooded with cheap low quality food imports.a