DARD Withdrawal must be at proper pace - Elliott
Ulster Unionist MLA Tom Elliott has stated that the withdrawal of DARD computers and staff from the responsibility for movement recording of cattle must take place at a reasonable pace.
Mr Elliott noted “The withdrawal of DARD computers and staff from markets and abattoirs throughout the country is something that needs to be managed in a reasonable way. As the markets take over the responsibility for movement recording of cattle there will need to be new staff trained in how to work the computer systems and organize the recording in an efficient manner. Many farmers up and down the country rely upon receiving the passes needed to move their cattle to and from markets as it is how many make their livelihoods. It should not be underestimated just how important a smooth switch over between DARD and the Markets is.”
Earlier this week a DARD statement noted that the new system “had been successfully trialled in DARD’s market offices for the past number of months.” However, Mr Elliott stated that he is convinced that this is simply not the reality.
“The truth of the matter is that this issue needs more work because as I understand these DARD trials have not been successful and more work is required on the system no matter what the department reports may suggest. It is critical that the change over of responsibility takes place as smoothly as possible or it could result in trade been disrupted at markets across the country and many farmers suffering loss of income.
“As deputy-chair of the DARD committee, I supported the move by the committee to write to the Minister for Agriculture and her department clearly stating our view that more time was needed for the change over and urging her to allow at least a few more months for training new people before the switch becomes permanent. Mature leadership is required to make sure that neither the markets nor the farmers suffer from the switch of responsibility. We are not suggesting that the change does not happen, but are only asking that it is delayed until the proper system is in place.”