CAFRE leaking dairy advisers to Dale Farm

The drip of experienced dairy advisers moving from CAFRE to Dale Farm is continuing with reports that Co Armagh-based Alan Hopps is to take up a role as head of farmer relations at the co-op.

It is understood that Hopps has recently been heading up the CAFRE dairy team on a temporary basis, having previously served as a senior adviser in North Armagh. He has worked at CAFRE for 35 years.

Hopps is taking up the role at Dale Farm vacated by his former CAFRE colleague, Neville Graham, who is now a director at the company.

Also joining the Dale Farm group in recent weeks is Newry-based dairy adviser Michael Verner, who has taken up a role at United Feeds. It is understood that Verner has spent over 20 years at CAFRE.

A Co Down dairy farmer who contacted the Irish Farmers Journal said the exodus has caused unease in the area.

“Some of the top advisers are leaving and moving to commercial firms. What does this tell you? These guys are a big loss to us farmers,” he said.