Helping Manx farmers evolve and grow

April 2010 Agri-News Published by Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture

Important new era Index Manx Agriculture entered an important Minister Shimmin said “Incorporating the Minister’s comments 2 new era on 1st April when the environment, food and agriculture into one Re-organisation of Government restructuring of Government took effect. department is a very natural fit - the three and Department changes 3 The new Department of Environment, matters are inextricably linked. I have Food and Agriculture, established from the already seen how significantly Manx Countryside Care Scheme 4 former Department of Agriculture, Agriculture has changed, since I was last in What’s the future for Fisheries and Forestry and incorporating the Department in 1999; the recent changes, elements of the former DoLGE was including Countryside Care provide us with a farming in the ? 5 created. The new Department is led by firm foundation for moving forward together.” and event 6 MHK as Minister and Ken Ken Kinrade commented “The restructure Kinrade as Chief Executive. The Minister “Video Stars” 6 has gone very smoothly and the new will be assisted by Tim Crookhall MHK and Department has lost no time in addressing Energy Champions Award Juan Turner MLC as political members. the issues affecting the industry. for New HQ 7 A smooth handover took place from Negotiations on the red meat Derogation Changes at the top 7 Minister Phil Gawne and former Chief have continued throughout the period: we Executive Colin Kniveton at the new are a little more hopeful for a positive Manx Food events 7 corporate headquarters in St John’s. All outcome given the most recent Local Food Marketing support 8 aspects affecting the ongoing development representations. We are also continuing of a reliable, sustainable, self reliant Manx our ongoing dialogue with the processors Farmhouse Breakfast at Tesco’s 8 agriculture will continue to be addressed. to ensure that their needs, and the needs of their clients, are being addressed.” Isle of Man Food and Drink Festival 2010 9 Manx Loaghtan on the New Headquarters 'Best of British' Menu 9 Manx Gourmet Dinner at Minister John Shimmin MHK, and Ken The 1st of April 2010 was a momentous King William’s College 9 Kinrade, Chief Executive DEFA, welcome day for all at DEFA as we joined together visitors to Thie Slieau Whallian; pictured to form the new Department of Meat and Poultry with Administration Officers Catherine Environment, Food and Agriculture. Processing Awards 10 Lowey (left) from and Jemma Watterson (right) from Ballacosnahan Electronic Tagging in Farm, Patrick. Sheep: EID. 10 Disposal of Fallen Stock 10 Up and Coming Changes in the AI Service 11 Retirement of Peter Williamson, Senior Forester 11 Market trends 12 2

“Farmers are core to every Manx resident’s life. You provide us with our staple foods and protect our environment. Your passion and drive is recognised throughout the community and demonstrated in the value placed on the countryside by our entire population. Yet, you are also business men and it is important that your efforts are suitably rewarded. ” Hon John Philip Shimmin BEd MHK

Spring lambs at Kerrow-ny-Glough, Greeba Minister’s comments I am excited at being changing world: a world that is led by about their future, it will be a struggle for the first Minister of the changing consumer demands with Government to also be passionate. Hence, Department of increased global competition and growing I am keen to hear about your problems, Environment, Food and environmental concerns. however, I am even keener to hear your Agriculture, and thrilled solutions. Farmers are core to every Manx resident’s to reacquaint myself life. You provide us with our staple foods Recent meetings on the red meat with the issues affecting and protect our environment. Your passion Derogation appear to have gone well and the Agricultural and drive is recognised throughout the I hope that some form of interim community since leaving community and demonstrated in the value extension should be achievable. DAFF in 1999. placed on the countryside by our entire Ensuring we have a sustainable food chain Firstly, I must pay tribute to my population. Yet, you are also business men is a key priority. It is essential that my predecessor, Phil Gawne. Phil has been an and it is important that your efforts are Department continues to work with the incredibly committed, passionate and suitably rewarded. three processing plants to achieve improved influential minister and, I am sure you will I am aware that recent budget cuts have processing efficiency, better access to agree, a powerful advocate for the dented the confidence of some farmers. higher value markets and improved focus farming industry. Much has changed since Whilst cuts are unfortunate, they are also on the home market. This should deliver I was previously involved in agriculture: I unavoidable and need to be seen in improved services for consumers and help believe the changes that Phil has perspective of increased income from the farmers be properly rewarded from the promoted have gone a long way to market place. Reductions in Government market place they supply. empowering the industry to be far more in spending are affecting all the Island’s charge of its own destiny. I'm certainly You must be congratulated on what you community and savings are having to be not saying that we have got to where we have done in recent years with Phil made across the board. want to be, but we're definitely heading in Gawne, and I would like to help you to the right direction – this must be stated Through my Department I will endeavour achieve even more. loudly and clearly from the outset. We to work with you as best I can; however, Hon John Philip Shimmin BEd MHK live in changing times, and we need to it is important that the industry also plays Shirveishagh adapt and develop the skills needed for a its part: unless farmers are passionate

Agri-News April 2010 3

Re-organisation of Government and Department changes By Ed Clague, Agricultural Policy Manager Restructure of Department Department’s conservation strategy. The responsible for the meat graders and the Environment & Government Analyst come Technical Admin group led by Jo Brew. With the restructure of Government and from the former DoLGE. the subsequent change of Minister and Field Service Delivery team Chief Executive; at the same time as the Within the new Agriculture Division there Kim Etherton, Paul Reid, Andy MacLeod Department moving to its new head will be separate Policy and Field Service and Alistair Breed lead the various aspects quarters; coupled with changes from Delivery teams. of Field Service Delivery. earlier in the year, farmers could be Policy team forgiven for being a little confused about Kim leads Service Delivery and has what is what in the new Department. Ed Clague takes responsibility for the primary responsibility for the delivery of Policy team with a future-focused sphere the Countryside Care Scheme (CCS) The new structure is aimed at producing of activity responsible for the future assisted by Andy MacLeod. Kim will also greater efficiencies within Government direction of agricultural policy and be responsible for developing the through a more co-ordinated and effective legislation. The team incorporates Andy Department’s marketing strategy assisted framework of Departments. In the first Macdonald and Chris Kneale who are by Audrey Fowler. instance farmers will see little impact on responsible for the Department’s advisory their day to day relationship with Andrew MacLeod, as Senior Field Officer will strategy and providing leadership, Government and those officers with whom be primarily responsible for practical CCS technical advice and interpretation on they regularly deal. However, more delivery, such as inspections and responses to rural and agricultural issues. Andy and significant changes are inevitable in the technical issues. Paul Reid and Frank Harrison Chris will continue to facilitate a longer term. The new Department of continue to look after the administrative side collaborative and ‘can-do’ culture across Environment, Food and Agriculture consists of the Scheme and most importantly ensuring the whole food chain. Peter McEvoy, of six Divisions, Agriculture, Fisheries, payments are made on time. formerly of the Wildlife and Conservation Forestry, Environment, Government Division joins the team with a strong agri- Alistair Breed takes overall responsibility Laboratory and Corporate Services. environment background and will be key for the AI service and Wool control, with The Agriculture Division has been created in advising on practical solutions in a Andrew Willoughby taking day to day by merging the former Agricultural Services number of on-farm biodiversity issues. responsibilities for these services Division and Animal Health Division and is Richard Ashworth will liaise on veterinary Knockaloe headed by Stuart Jaques as the Director of policy, animal health and scientific matters Agriculture. The delivery of wildlife and The Department finished actively farming and work closely with Ed and the Advisors conservation objectives is now handled by Knockaloe on 31st of March and will be on integrating science into policy. The the individual Divisions thereby freeing up winding down the operation between now promotion of benchmarking will also be a Liz Charter to concentrate on advocacy for and September. key responsibility. Richard is also biodiversity and developing the

Department of the Environment, Food and Agriculture, Thie Slieau Whallian, Foxdale Road, St John’s, Isle of Man, IM4 3AS 4

Countryside Care Scheme By Kim Etherton Countryside Care Scheme Project Officer

Countryside Care Scheme 2009 • Scrap metal and plastics in fields and in Officers if you need help, but it will field boundaries: non compliance with always be the applicants’ responsibility Staff are busy finalising various aspects of Standard 13 continues to be a main cause to check their land and maps and the Scheme’s first year of operation. In of penalties for farmers. Penalties are only declare their eligible acres. If you wish particular, preparations are well in hand to applied if more than 3 fields are affected to notify the Department of an error, ensure everyone is paid their last 2009 and there must be 3 to 4 pieces of material please do so on an Error Correction CCS instalment by the end of April. This per field or 3 – 4 in the boundaries. To form – having one of these in place payment will take into account any avoid a penalty, collect up material and could save you from a penalty. penalties that have been applied, as well store it in the haggard, or dispose of it as any National Reserve awards which The National Reserve for New Entrants responsibly. See note about a new plastics have been made. Where appeals are only is open for applications from 22nd disposal scheme in this Agri News. outstanding, the Department will make a March to 30th April. A budget of payment which reflects its’ stated position; • 53% of farms passed their inspection; £100,000 is available and, if the value of making any required adjustments at the 31%received warning letters (no penality); applications exceeds this, a pro-rata next nearest payment date in the 2010 10% received a 0.5% penalty and 6% a payment will be made. Thus all Scheme year, which starts on 1st April. 2.5% penalty. Penalties increase in applications will be considered together 2010 to 75% of their final value, with and an outcome notified before 18th May. Countryside Care Scheme 2010 100% imposed from 1st April 2011. Plastics disposal scheme 2010 Watch out for your application and census • Ensure that agrochemicals are stored in form that will arrive by 23rd April. The The Department is again working with the a locked, secure bunded container. closing date for your application is 18th Waste Management team to deliver this May and census day remains 4th May. • inspections are carried out Scheme; although this may be the last Penalties will apply for late applications independently of Cross Compliance time that it can be funded by the and payments will not be made on any inspections, but are checked for Government. It will run from Monday 3rd forms received from 16th June onwards. penalties. 30% of cattle inspections May (Jurby only) to midday on Saturday gave rise to penalties this year. 8th May at Hangar 44, Jurby Industrial Payments will be made in July, October Estate: 8am to 3pm. At Balthane Farm, and April 2011, but note that these will be • Land eligibility has continued to give rise Ballasalla (from Tuesday 4th May) from in 3 equal instalments from now on. to problems with 42% of inspected 8am to 2.30pm. Both sites are open on farms incurring a penalty. These are At least 80 Cross Compliance inspections will Saturday from 8am to 12 noon. Plastics distinct from the Cross Compliance be made this Scheme year. Key points arising such as silage wrap and clean empty regime and farmers are urged to check from inspections in 2009 are as follows: plastic containers will be accepted. their land carefully before making a declaration this year. Contact the Field

Agri-News April 2010 5

What’s the future for dairy farming in the Isle of Man? By Kim Etherton, Countryside Care Scheme Project Officer

Many concerns have been expressed Key issues include: grants, whether from a new FHIS, the about the future of the dairy industry, not Agricultural Development Fund or the • Lack of up to date and robust data on least about the impact of the Countryside Marketing Initiatives Fund. Money is tighter in the cost of milk production on Island Care Scheme on this sector. Between all cases and a comprehensive business case 2014 and 2017, all farmers will receive an • Individual farmers pay very different will be needed to support any applications. increasing amount based on the flat rate prices for inputs Guidance on a best way forward will be area payment, with a diminishing amount provided to the industry as soon as possible. • Lack of capital funding to replace/update calculated from their Historic Entitlement. The concept of a “production cost plus” aging dairy farm equipment and The flat rate area only payment will be scheme has been mooted, but much more infrastructure – investment is needed to made from 2018. For many dairy information will be required from producers, maintain a production level of about 25 farmers, there is recognition that this will before the Department can consider whether million litres of milk per year lead to a decrease in subsidy received this might be possible. The willingness of from the government, so what can be • For some dairy farmers, total returns are farmers to provide information in confidence done to replace this amount with income too low, to provide a sustainable living for anonymous summary statistics will be from the marketplace? income and the funds to invest in the farm critical for this to be taken forward, and DEFA is currently identifying the data which would The challenge is to come up with answers • The age of current dairy farmers and be required. over the next few years, so that current the need to attract younger ones to dairy farmers feel confident about continuing enter the sector Progress will be reported in future editions with production, and newcomers and • The retail price of imported milk and of Agri-News. successors feel there is a livelihood to be the role of retailers Self help ideas for dairy farmers made from the sector. The outcomes of the meetings make it very Economies of scale are not always possible A number of workshop meetings are now clear that DEFA, the Creamery and farmers on a small island but you could consider being held, with staff from the Creamery, will have to work together to come up with joining a buying group based in the UK. It DEFA (formerly DAFF) plus dairy farmer solutions. Many of the issues above are will have much greater buying power and it representatives. Concerns are being aired inter-connected and resolving any one of may be possible to save on the normal and action points assigned, to address the them may not, of itself, be sufficient to help price of key inputs, even taking into issues raised. The recent PROMAR report, individual farmers. A package of measures account the cost of transport to the Island. funded by DAFF, is being taken into will be required, taking into account the Other local dairy farmers are doing this and account throughout these meetings. diversity of dairy farms across the Island. saving themselves money, so contact the DEFA are concentrating on the availability of Advisory Service for further information.

Andrew Sanders overseeing the milking of the 400 cow herd through the new 40 point rotary milking parlour at Ballalough Farm, West Baldwin. 6

Beef and Sheep event By Chris Kneale, Agricultural Adviser

£36,872 was the value of the potential opportunities discussed and reviewed by Agricultural Advisors Andy Macdonald and Chris Kneale at the Spring Beef & Sheep Event, held at Knockaloe. The potential £36,872 was identified from the topics;

Machinery costs £19,500 Barren Cows £2,920 Out wintering cows £1,066 Creep feeding calves £1,659 The Value of hitting weight and grade targets in finishing cattle; £9,086 The Effect of Age of Finished Cattle on Efficiency £2,480 Grass finishing vs Ad-lib £161

Total £36,872 market requirements (worth £9,086), All of these topics have the potential to be efficient production (worth £8,286) and implemented, fully or partially, within any Business management – (worth £19,500). beef and sheep enterprise, with the potential For further information or for a copy of to improve margins and perhaps even in the handout please contact Chris or some cases reduce workload and time. Andy on 695726. The potential was as Chris and Andy Events pointed out potential income and not potential profit. Any options should be Don Tiffin, Horticultural Advisor, is considered on a whole farm level and not available for free on farm visits on 27th & just at an enterprise level as with the likes 28th April. Phone him on 07774 184726 of grass finishing vs ad-lib cereal finishing – to arrange this. grass finishing, for Knockaloe returned 30th April: Sean Sparling, Agronomist – £161 per head more than feeding ad-lib contact Andy or Chris for more information cereals, however on a whole farm basis 1st July: Beef suckler event in Northern stocking rates may have to be reduced and Ireland. The Advisory Service could this may reduce overall farm profitability. organise a trip if there is sufficient The whole event encompassed the three interest. Contact Chris on 685855 for key areas which Andy and Chris feel more information. businesses should focus on – Meeting

“Video Stars” By Chris Kneale, Agricultural Adviser The Advisory Service have over the winter Speakers from , Wales, England With the new DEFA HQ equipped with the VC months been working with new video and Northern Ireland have all been part of facilities we hope that we can find suitable technology to deliver “video stars” or the series of video conferences held on: timings that will attract a higher number of specialist speakers to the Industry – Sheep EID, Pig market outlook, Sheep attendees. All of the meeting have been well perhaps even making some of the nutrition, Potatoes, Cereal disease control, received by those that took the time to industry video stars themselves! The use Contract farming and collaborative attend and good interaction has taken place of this technology has proven to be an ventures , understanding EBV’s, Suckler between the farmers and presenters. effective and successful way of delivering production in NI, Dairy production For further information or to receive a high quality speakers from all quarters systems & grassland management. copy of the presentations contact Chris or of the UK. Andy on 695726.

Agri-News April 2010 7

Energy Champions Award for New HQ

The photo shows, from left to right, David Building Research Establishment. The as sheltered housing schemes, schools Ronan, Director, Finance and Support building will house all DEFA staff on one and swimming pools. DEFA HQ and Services, DEFA; Minister Cretney; Colin site rather than several, which was the sawmill complex is the first government Kniveton, formerly DAFF Chief Executive, situation, reducing the number of site to be heated by woodchip. Many Andrew Sidebottom, Director of Forestry, buildings that must be used, and the more opportunities will arise to replace Amenity & Lands, DEFA. lifetime savings of the design chosen have boilers in new projects. The award was for the Best Innovation by been quantified as £2.7m operational cost the Public Sector, for the DEFA HQ and saving above a standard office building Woodchip Production Project. The new over its 40 year design life. HQ, Thie Slieau Whallian, at St Johns is The woodchip production facility is also the first building in the Island to meet the very interesting. The infrastructure is now BREEAM Excellent criteria, and one of only in place for DEFA to produce a viable and 400 in the UK. BREEAM ratings are used cost-effective heating fuel, in the form of to assess environmental quality of wood chips, from the DEFA conifer estate buildings and are managed by the to heat larger government buildings, such

Changes at the top

Minister Phil Gawne has been with the Colin Kniveton moved to the Department Department for 7 years; and seeing huge in 2006 and it was disappointing for challenges and changes in the Agricultural everyone that he only had just a few days industry during this time. He can certainly in the new HQ before being reassigned as look back over these years as having been Chief Executive to the Department of incredibly productive. Many previous Economic Development. Colin has been a Ministers have seen DAFF as a stepping very hands-on Chief Executive and will be stone to bigger Departments, but Minister greatly missed in all respects. From left to right: Minister Phil Gawne MHK, Brenda Gawne has enjoyed close involvement with Cannell MHK, John Ballard and Colin Kniveton In addition to changes at the very top of the every aspect of his work and has a vast Department, John Ballard is leaving his post knowledge of the range of functions and scheme, which Mrs Cannell initiated, and as Freshwater Fisheries Manager. He started issues within the Department. He has clearly which involves the planting of young with the Department in 1995 as Hatchery been sad to leave, but we wish him all the broadleaf trees in part of Conrhenny Manager, taking over from Les Kneale. He best as new Minister for Infrastructure. Plantation by primary school children. A will be taking on an exciting new project in MHK was Chairman of the large number of schools have participated running and managing what is currently the Forestry Division for 3 years from February during the first 2 years of the scheme - it is Government-owned Trout Hatchery at 2007. With a strong interest in conservation a fitting legacy to Mrs Cannell’s work that the Ballaglass for his new employers, and and tree planting, she worked hard to scheme will carry on long into the future. leaseholders of the hatchery, Troutlodge Ltd. Mrs Cannell leaves to join the Department of promote the work of the Division during her DEFA staff would like to wish everyone Community, Culture and Leisure. term. Of particular note is the ‘Trees for Life’ every success in their new roles.

Manx Food events By Audrey Fowler, Marketing Officer The Agricultural Shows are great places to Any Manx food producers wishing to book DEFA new HQ car park. This market will showcase Manx produce. They educate space in these marquees should Tel: also include bigger producers. If any people about where their food comes 685856 or email [email protected], producers wish to attend this event, from, and how it supports local farming as soon as possible. please contact Sheila on 454549 or email communities. [email protected] It is with regret, that the Manx Food Fayre The Department is pleased to sponsor the and Woodland Discovery event has had to Manx Food Marquee: at the Southern be cancelled this year due to budget cuts. Agricultural Show on the 31st July and 1st But in its place, Sheila Gawne will be August; and at the Royal Manx Agricultural running a Farmers’ Market on the 5th Show on the 13th and 14th August. July between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. at the 8

Local Food Marketing support By Audrey Fowler, Marketing Officer

The Department has been able to support a progress the Taste/Harvest Isle of Man The first 5,000 copies were distributed number of initiatives out of its 2009/10 Scheme. This quality assessment scheme within 9 months and have significantly marketing budget. Whilst the objectives of is proving very popular among raised awareness of the organisation on each project will vary, all aim to raise restaurants, cafes, pubs, bars, take-aways the Isle of Man, with ‘friends and family’ awareness of the diversity, value and quality and other eateries on the Island. being a considerable market segment. of locally produced food; thereby increasing Harvest Isle of Man is a quality assurance “Stay on a Manx Farm” has reprinted a income streams for local farmers. scheme, with an annual inspection further 10,000 copies and aims to make Manx Organic co-ordinator regime. The use of local produce is further promotional connections, to assessed, together with how it is facilitate targeted distribution of the A grant has been awarded to the Manx brochure in the UK. Organic Network to recruit a co-ordinator; promoted to customers. The scheme is an to implement actions identified in the excellent way to raise awareness of locally L’Orient Festival - Organic Working Party Report. These produced food and to increase demand 5th – 15th August 2010 include negotiations across the food chain for it. There are 18 members of the Taste Inter-Celtique Festival in L’Orient is the to boost supplies and sales of locally Isle of Man scheme, of which 14 are world’s largest Celtic festival; it celebrates produced organic food, hopefully reducing Harvest members. For the next coming its 40th anniversary this year. The the dependency on imported products. 2010 year there are 25 registered estimated attendance over the 10 days is members and this number is growing. Farmers’ Markets approximately 650,000 visitors who travel DEFA funding supports the promotion of from the Celtic nations (Brittany, Ireland, The Isle of Man Farmers’ Markets have the scheme to potential new members. Scotland, Wales, Cornwall, Isle of Man, been growing steadily over the past 3 Galicia and Asturias). years and continue to be a non profit Stay on a Manx Farm making body. The Committee has The success of the current “Stay on a 500 plus international journalists attend and identified a number of items that would Manx Farm” brochure has necessitated a report from the festival. The growth in the help to improve their image and meet reprint: the Department has contributed festival is attracting an ever increasing essential Health and Safety standards. towards its costs. number of political figures. Interest in the Isle of Man is always significant and the The grant given to the Farmers’ Markets “Stay on a Manx Farm” began in 1996 and Island is promoted through performances group will, amongst other things, enable now has 12 members, all able to provide by Manx artists. Increasingly, Manx food is them to purchase a number of table top holiday accommodation for 121 visitors being included in the Isle of Man’s chiller units so that they can meet hygiene each night. The brochure features promotional marquee and a selection of requirements when selling meat and wonderful bed and breakfast and self Manx cheese and ale will be on offer to cheese to the general public. More Market catering properties in some of the most festival goers. DEFA has given a grant to canopies will also be purchased, for use by beautiful locations on the Isle of Man. support the Manx marquee and its Manx a growing number of stallholders. Unlike the UK farm stay schemes, all “Stay food and drink promotion. Taste/Harvest Isle of Man on a Manx Farm” members are situated on working farms, which has become a The Department is working with the unique selling point for the organisation. Department of Economic Development to

Farmhouse Breakfast at Tesco’s Isle of Man Creamery, Ramsey Bakery, and Staarvey Farm were at Tesco’s last January; providing tastings as a celebration of a healthy hearty breakfast in support of the “Farmhouse Breakfast Week”. Manx producers welcomed visitors to get into the healthy breakfast habit, and celebrate the wealth of breakfast foods on the Island.

Agri-News April 2010 9

Isle of Man Food and Drink Festival 2010 By Audrey Fowler, Marketing Officer

The Department of Environment, Food The festival will be about celebrating local and Agriculture, and the Department of produce, and is due to take place on the Economic Development are pleased to 25th and 26th September, at the Villa announce that, after the huge success of Marina Gardens 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Last last year’s inaugural festival, the Isle of year it is estimated that over 8,000 people Man Food and Drink festival will be going attended the festival over the weekend; it ahead again in September this year. is hoped that this year attendance will be series. Fortunately we have engaged even higher. Celebrity Chef Gino D'Acampo for the Saturday 25th September. We are also very pleased to announce that Manx Gas will be the gold sponsor of the Over the weekend, there will be: event - it is their 175th anniversary. Three demonstrations in the Manx Food Live silver sponsors have also been confirmed, Theatre, over 15 Manx food producers in these are Tesco, Shoprite and Ask Buck. the Manx Food Marquee, fringe events, entertainment, outside catering, Farmers’ Gary Cregeen, sales and marketing Market, “I Love ManxChef” competition, manager at Manx Gas said: “Manx Gas is Top Chef Competition, Family Manx Kids delighted to be involved in a festival which Food and Drink Day and much more. celebrates and promotes the excellence of the Island’s food and produce. We see Look out for more details appearing in the this as a major community event and one local newspaper. we are proud to be associated with.” If you would like to be involved in the Unfortunately, the Hairy Bikers are not festival, please contact Audrey Fowler, able to attend our Festival this year, as Marketing Officer, Tel: 685856 or email Celebrity Chef Gino D'Acampo they are extremely busy with their TV [email protected] Manx Loaghtan on the 'Best of British' Menu By George Steriopulos, Ballaloaghtan, Ballasalla

Manx Loaghtan Mutton Cannon Soati Boati a stunning Grade II Listed Building near may not exactly roll off the tongue, but the Tower of London. In 2009, it was it's the name Chef Patron Cyrus Todiwala Highly Recommended in the Sustainable of Café Spice Namaste has given to the Food category of the City of London best-selling starter on his new 'Best of ‘Sustainable Cities’ Awards. British' menu. Manx Loaghtan Mutton Cannon Soati Boati Ever since Chef Cyrus Todiwala prepared is a lightly marinated sautéed and skewered this dish on BBC1's Saturday Kitchen on mutton delicacy - is just one in a roster of 20th February, people have asked him to imaginative dishes created by one of the put it on the menu of Café Spice UK's foremost Indian chefs, to salute Namaste: now he has. Café Spice farmers, fishmonger and growers. Namaste is in its fifteenth year, located in

Manx Gourmet Dinner at King William’s College By Heather Smallwood, Chartered Marketer

The Barrovian Hall at King William’s tickets sold out within a very short space fillet of Loaghtan lamb from the Manx College was the delightful setting for the of time. One hundred and forty guests Loaghtan Breed Society, cheeses from Isle Buchan School’s recent superb fundraising thoroughly enjoyed the food and wines, at of Man Creamery, plus produce from Manx Gourmet Dinner. the same time as raising funds towards a Devereau's Fishmongers , Greeba Farms school minibus. Ltd, Robinsons, Cocoa Red, Celtic Mist, Not only was it possible to create a MannVend, plus wines from The Vineyard magnificent seven course gourmet dinner Dinner at the event was focused around in Castletown, and water from Green from local produce, it was encouraging to celebrating the best of Manx produce, Mann Spring Ltd. see the attraction of local foods when including queenies from Paddy’s market, 10

Meat and Poultry Processing Awards By Kewin Kerruish, Technical Manager, Isle of Man Meats

The first ever UK Meat and Poultry processing awards were held at the National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham, on 22nd March 2010. The awards, organised by Meat Trades Despite not winning the award, numerous Journal, are aimed at recognising and contacts were made within various sectors rewarding some of the best companies of the meat industry. It was also a great and projects across the meat and poultry- opportunity to catch up with current processing sector. customers and suppliers. Philip Teare, Managing Director of Isle of The awards combined with a full day Man Meats, and Kewin Kerruish, Technical spent at the annual food industry Manager, attended the awards. exhibition, Foodex, has helped Isle of Man Kewin was nominated for the “Young Meats to further enhance their reputation Processor of the Year Award”. within the meat industry, as well as keep Unfortunately on the night he was runner up to speed with the latest developments up to Daniel Scott from ABP Doncaster. within the trade.

Electronic Tagging in Sheep: EID. By Richard Ashworth Veterinary Officer

The Island is obliged to follow EU supplied by FMA. There is no reason to means alone. Some producers may want to Regulation 21/2004 on the mandatory change this system which is reliable, buy readers for use as management tools. introduction of electronic identification robust, and provides full traceability. Reader costs vary between £200 for a (EID) for sheep and . Sheep for live export, to UK (&EU) that hand held reader to £1500 for a race Animals must be identified by means of are born after 2010 will need EID, but reader. Around £475 would provide a an electronic device, together with a those born before 2010, (e.g. cull ewes serviceable hand held model with some corresponding ear tag. etc), would need the double individual data recording facility. EID will not be applied retrospectively: tagging as at present. Therefore there EID tag sets can vary from relatively sheep born before 01 Jan 2010 will not be would be no change to tagging in this cheap “fold over” tags at 75p each to affected. The current green (pre 2001) older class of sheep. “button” tags at £1.00 each. and yellow (post 2001) tags will still The Department has agreed that EID and Doubtless as technology improves and remain in force, for these age groups. their matching tags will be blue; this will industry competition increases post 2010, EID will therefore apply to the 2010 readily identify animals born after 2010 these costs would be expected to fall. kept as replacements. replacement lamb crop. Sheep must be The requirement for EID will have a tagged by 9 months of age, or before Changes in the UK and EU designated financial impact upon industry, although they leave the holding, if they leave identifiers, mean that Isle of Man with judicious purchasing, and before that age. flockmarks will have to change slightly. manufacturer competition, this can be There is derogation within the Regulation The Regulation does not require that minimalised. As only replacement stock to allow lambs under 12 months, destined producers have access to, or own, a will require EID, and there will be no for slaughter not to require EID, but to be Reader. Once EID has been applied, there retrospective EID, together with slaughter single tagged. At present, sheep is no requirement for producers to verify its derogation being applied, the financial consigned to the Meat Plant are identified activity and integrity before movement. impact will be further reduced. with yellow individual identity tags Identity may be confirmed by the visual

Disposal of Fallen Stock By Jo Brew, Animal Health Officer

To arrange collection of fallen stock please telephone 687595. During office hours it is answered by DEFA staff and at all other times it is switched to an answer-phone.

Agri-News April 2010 11

Up and Coming Changes in the AI Service By Alistair Breed, Veterinary Officer Two ‘new’ faces are set to appear on the the latest time for booking a call on the If you own straws held at the AI centre, AI rounds. Catherine Lowey and Andrew same day will be brought forward to which you no longer wish to keep, please Qualtrough have both been on a four day 10.30am from the 1st April 2010. Your inform Catherine on 695726 to save training course in England, and gained cooperation with this will be appreciated yourself the storage fee. certificates in bovine AI and semen as it will enable better journey planning; Changes at a glance handling. They will initially be working making for more efficient use of time. The from the 1st April 2010 alongside Brain Cain and Andrew new number as of April 1st will be Willoughby; over time they will be joining 687340. The contact number for AI admin • New telephone number 687340 for them on the rota. This will free up more queries will continue to be 695726. booking calls of Andrew’s time to return to his primary In the current financial environment, the • Latest time for booking a call on the role of Field Officer. charges for the AI service need to be same day will be 10.30am John Cannell will officially retire in May, increased to better reflect the time and • Standard charge per insemination £12.50 after 32 years of loyal service with the resources the Department puts into it. The Department in AI & Milk Recording. John standard charge per insemination will be • Storage charge for straws at the AI has made excellent progress after having increased to £15 in two stages; to £12.50 centre of £15 per year or part, except been diagnosed with a spinal tumour in from the 1st April 2010 and to £15 from for short term storage. March 2009. He has proved an extremely the 1st October 2010. from the 1st October 2010 popular, unassuming and flexible employee, Charges will be introduced for the storage colleague and friend of everyone; I feel • Standard charge per insemination will of straws at the AI centre of £15 per year sure you will join us in wishing him all the be £15 or part, (for anything other than short very best in his continuing recovery. term storage) from the 1st April 2010. The new AI team look forward to working The AI service is being re-organised to Straws imported to the AI centre and together with our customers, to increase increase efficiency. The answerphone will delivered to on farm flasks after short efficiency and minimise charge increases, continue to be used, but as part of this storage will not attract a storage charge. whilst continuing to provide a quality service.

Retirement of Peter Williamson, Senior Forester

Peter Williamson retired from his post of Senior Forester with the Forestry Division on 26th February 2010, after a mammoth 40 years of service with the Department. Peter started work with the then Forestry Board on the manual staff in 1970; he often referred fondly to knowing what it was to be a “working man”. He became Northern Forester in 1980, and was promoted to Senior Forester in 1991. On his way out the door, Peter was heard to say the following: I count myself fortunate to have been involved in an undertaking which is timeless, and beyond, (or very nearly so), the attempts of man to speed it up. Trees grow now much as they ever did and in all likelihood Peter Williamson (on the left) is being presented with presents from his colleagues by Director of Finance & ever will do, I have always found Corporate Services, David Ronan. comfort and reassurance in this employees’ working life had been It goes without saying that all of us at St permanence; I suspect many other one of unrelenting misery. This was Johns will greatly miss Peter’s wisdom, people do to. never the case for me. From the start mastery of understatement and ability to As one nears retirement colleagues to the finish, I have enjoyed the remain unprovoked. All the best for a sometimes refer to “counting the company of the best of people in the very long and enjoyable retirement Peter! days”, as though their fellow best of situations”. 12

This independent commentary has been supplied by Richard King, Business Research Consultant from Andersons. Market Trends Details of how the graphs have been calculated can be found at: www.gov.im/daff/News/agricultural.xml Cattle. Since the turn of the year, IoM GB prices in the autumn ‘trough’ were against MLC cattle prices have tended to drift over 40p/kg higher than in the previous prices is now downwards in line with general GB price season, and prices started to recover lower than it levels; although Manx prices have much earlier too – increasing from has been for 6 or 7 months; and values are remained firmer than those across the October onwards, rather than a post- similar to those being received a year ago. water. GB prices have been weaker due Christmas recovery. Manx prices have Milk. The IoM milk price has drifted down to a greater supply of prime cattle shown the same pattern, meaning that in the last three months to a fraction over available than at the same time last year – returns throughout the winter have been 24p/l in February. This is almost the same both throughout the UK and Ireland. The much better than last year. The latest as the average price being received by UK recent slight strengthening of Sterling has IoM figures show a sharp rise as new producers. The Manx price is almost also pressured GB prices as imports season lamb values are used. This has 0.9p/l lower than at the same point last become more competitive. This increased taken the Island lamb price above that year. Northern Irish milk prices were supply has met subdued consumer for the MLC average which is still mainly lower in February. However, this is the demand, and prices have reduced from based on old-season animals (in the GB farmgate price adjusting to earlier falls in the highs seen through most of 2009. only 3% of market throughput in the first the wholesale market. The March NI milk The start of the new IoM marketing year week of April was new-season). price auction actually saw prices up 10% has seen Manx prices nudge upwards. Pigs.The GB price has continued to on February, and over a third higher than This has closed the gap on MLC prices for improve over the last few months as the previous March. Prices on the world both steers and heifers to below 20p/kg, supplies have remained tight. market are also firming again. This would and means that IoM prices are a little Supermarkets continue to offer a premium suggest some improvement in UK values higher than at the same time last year. for GB produce, which is achieving higher should be seen soon. However, the Lamb. IoM Lamb prices have tracked the values than continental pork. The announcement of a small cut in the Tesco MLC price over the last few months, but prospects seem reasonable for further price dedicated producer price (based on costs the discount has narrowed in recent rises. A good summer would help with rather than pure market values) seems to weeks from 35-40p/kg to 20-25p/kg. stronger sales of barbeque meat. IoM have taken the momentum away from an prices have dropped, so the differential early general price increase.

Contact Information Department of the Environment, Food and Agriculture, Thie Slieau Whallian, Foxdale Road, St John’s, Isle of Man, IM4 3AS Telephone: 685835 Fax: 685851 e-mail: [email protected] Web: www.gov.im/daff If you would prefer to receive an electronic link, rather than paper copies through the post, please let Frank Harrison know by phoning 687304 or email [email protected] Printed on recycled paper.

Agri-News April 2010