Farming problems top agenda

The agriculture industry is facing new problems

Issues facing Northern Ireland's farmers are top of the agenda on the second day of the Commonwealth Agricultural Conference in Belfast.

The Royal Ulster Agricultural Society (RUAS) said Tuesday would be an opportunity for farmers to discuss problems the industry has faced in the past year.

The industry had been devastated by last year's outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease.

Farmers have already said the recent wet weather has caused serious problems.

I have little doubt that exports of beef and other commodities from Northern Ireland will be top of the agenda

Bill Yarr

Bill Yarr, from the RUAS, said the recent problems would dominate their agenda.

"We have three noted Northern Ireland speakers who are going to be speaking on a range of topics on agriculture.

"I have little doubt that exports of beef and other commodities from Northern Ireland will be top of the agenda."

The Duke of Edinburgh attended the first day of the conference on Monday.

Prince Phillip, who is President of the Royal Agricultural Society of the Commonwealth, addressed 150 delegates before meeting representatives from various Commonwealth countries.