The Ulster Farmers' Union met with the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute in County Fermanagh. UFU president William Irvine took part in the discussion.

Union members voiced concerns based on recent footage. They requested explanations from AFBI on the reported issues.

William Irvine stressed the need for trust in agri-food sector bodies. He pointed out that Northern Ireland farmers undergo strict inspections and compliance processes. Irvine said publicly funded research institutes should follow suit.

The UFU flagged insufficient full-time farmer members on the AFBI board. It stated farmers provide essential hands-on knowledge as major stakeholders. The union said greater farmer input would enhance decisions on research priorities.

The group urged DAERA and AFBI to address the representation gap.

The UFU intends to maintain contact with AFBI. It aims to prioritise Northern Ireland farmers' interests in research agendas.