The Ulster Farmers’ Union today announced the launch of its free student membership for agri-students. The offer gives students a ‘taster’ of the benefits of being a full UFU member and is open to students between the ages of 18-25 studying any agri-related subject in either further or higher education in Northern Ireland.

Ulster Farmers’ Union Harry Sinclair said; “We are really excited to extend this offer to agri-students in Northern Ireland. Young farmers are the future of this great industry and we want to encourage and support them every step of the way. For almost 100 years, the Ulster Famers’ Union has been the largest democratic voluntary organisation representing farmers and growers in Northern Ireland. We listen closely to our members, and act as a voice for them both at home and abroad. The student membership is an excellent way for young farmers to get involved in the Union and to help shape the future of farming in Northern Ireland while at the same time availing of some great deals.”

Valid until graduation, the UFU free student membership allows student access some of the privileges of full UFU membership such as the UFU policy bulletin, group meetings and affinity deals with P&O Ferries, Travel Solutions, Membership Plus, Barclay’s Communications, and Todd’s Leap.

Harry Sinclair continued; “When you become a student member you are tapping into a wealth of agriculture information and experience which will be invaluable for your course and for your future business. Not to mention the money you could save by taking advantage of the UFU affinity deals for mobile phones, ferry travel, trailer training courses, and eating out.

“Group meetings really are the crux of UFU membership. They cover a range of topics with lots of discussions around the latest policy and practical farming issue and I would strongly encourage student members to get involved with them. It really is an excellent opportunity for young farmers to feed in to these important discussions and to ultimately help to shape the future of agri-food industry.”