SHARING OPTIONS:
Two important seed organisations, the plant variety office and Irish seed trade, are to be administered by new structures within APHA. \ Donal O Leary
Tillage farmers will be very aware of the importance of variety availability in all crops.
Varieties can bring a range of different characteristics to growers and, perhaps more importantly, they bring a stream of improved genetics on what seems to be a conveyor belt from the plant breeding sector.
Our recommended list and certification processes serves us well in this regard.
They have selected for us the best overall performers from the many new varieties that continue to be made available for evaluation.
Image source: Shane Casey
The Plant Variety Development Office (PVDO) and the Irish Seed Trade Association (ISTA) have entered into an agreement with the Animal and Plant Health Association (APHA).
The organisations confirmed news of the deal in an announcement today (Friday, April 30).
Agreement
Under the agreement, APHA will provide administration and managerial supports to the PVDO and ISTA in furthering the objectives of both organisations and in supporting the development of the Irish tillage sector.
As part of this agreement, Brigid Quigley has been appointed as general manager of PVDO and ISTA, the associations say.
In her new role, Brigid will assume full operational responsibility for the day-to-day activities of each organisation as well as developing and implementing a longer-term strategic plan to promote the aims of both organisations.
Image source: Macra Skillnet
A senior manager of Macra Agricultural Skillnet, which is under the umbrella of young farmers’ association Macra na Feirme is set to depart for pastures new,
Agriland understands.
Brigid Quigley, who is currently the network manager for Macra Agricultural Skillnet, is set to leave the organisation.
It is understood that Quigley is leaving Macra to take up a role with the Plant Variety Development Office (PVDO) and the Irish Seed Trade Association (ISTA).
Macra Agricultural Skillnet
Established by the young farmers’ organisation in 2015, Macra Agricultural Skillnet is a network that serves members involved in farming and a range of agricultural businesses.