NSA and Moredun Research Institute partnership strengthened at NSA conference and AGM
23rd August 2013
A lively debate about the challenges within sheep breeding, some probing questions about the future of disease control in flocks and a celebration of NSA’s activity over a 12-month period all featured in a two-day NSA event, held at the Moredun Research Institute on Wednesday 21st and Thursday 22nd August.
The first day saw breed societies affiliated to the NSA gather for the NSA Breed Society Forum, an event held every six months to update breed societies on technical and policy areas and encourage dialogue about different approaches and challenges within pedigree breeding. As well as interesting discussion about the pros and cons of maintaining the genetic diversity seen in the UK – in a ‘Progress versus Preservation debate’ – breed societies were also given the opportunity to discover the latest thinking on the prevention and control of key infectious diseases. Scientists from the Moredun Research Institute presented updates on their research into caseous lymphadenitis (CLA), ovine pulmonary adenocarcinoma (OPA) and the use of new immunogenetics approaches to improve disease control.
The second day saw the NSA hold its 120th Annual General Meeting and provide members with an update on the highlights of recent NSA activity, such as driving the discussion on CAP reform and continuing to fight for a common sense approach in the recording of livestock movements. This was followed by an update from Dr Colin McInnes on research priorities at Moredun, before visitors were taken on a tour of the world class facilities at Moredun, both within their laboratories and on the farm.
Phil Stocker, NSA Chief Executive, said: “NSA was delighted to hold its Breed Forum and AGM at the Moredun Research Institute. We already enjoy an excellent partnership with Moredun, as all our NSA members benefit from associate membership of Moredun, and spending two days with the scientists and researchers in Edinburgh strengthened this further. Our members highly value the Moredun information that we distribute to them through our communications network, and this was a great opportunity to visit the facility where all that information is generated.
“The partnership between NSA and Moredun is mutually beneficial and brings together the UK’s only dedicated sheep farming organisation and the UK’s leading research and institute in sheep health, genetics, diagnostics and vaccines. This partnership is hugely beneficial for sheep farmers so that research and development, and information and support to farmers are seamless. With the overriding need to reduce waste and increase production efficiency in agriculture, improving the health status of our sheep population is essential, and the NSA-Moredun partnership is helping UK sheep farmers make real progress in this area.”
The NSA and Moredun have become more closely associated following a membership partnership agreement since 2011. The two organisations are delighted to have increased linkages and collaborative activities to help support the sheep farming industry.
Dr Colin McInnes, Head of Vaccines and Diagnostics, Moredun Research Institute said: “Moredun scientists greatly enjoyed the opportunity to participate within this NSA Breed Society Forum and AGM and meet with others in the sheep farming industry to discuss how we can work more closely together to help improve the efficiency of livestock production going forward. We look forward very much to collaborating with the NSA in future events.”
Notes to editors
- National Sheep Association represents the views and interests of sheep producers throughout the UK. It is funded by its membership of sheep farmers and its activities involve it in every aspect of the sheep industry. NSA is a Company Limited by Guarantee, registered in England (37818) and a Registered charity in England and Wales (249255) and in Scotland (SC042853) More at www.nationalsheep.org.uk.
For further information please contact Joanne Pugh, NSA Senior Communications Officer, on 07807 237982 or joanne@nationalsheep.org.uk.
- Moredun Research Institute conducts internationally recognised research on the infectious diseases of livestock, caused by important viruses, bacteria and parasites. It employs 170 scientists, vets and support staff who continue to help find solutions for major challenges to modern farming such as the consequences of a changing climate; ensuring safe and sustainable food and water supplies conserving biodiversity and finding solutions to infectious disease. Today, many of the veterinary medicines and vaccines that are routinely used on farm have either been researched, developed or tested at Moredun. More information about the work of Moredun Research Institute can be found at www.moredun.ac.uk. For further information please contact Lee Innes, Moredun Director of Communications, on 01314 456157 or lee.innes@moredun.ac.uk.
