Event Details
- Date: 31 Mar 2009
- Venue: The Parliament Buildings
The Jubilee Dinner held in the Long Gallery at Parliament Buildings on Tuesday 31 March 2009 was a wonderful celebration of 50 years of the Ulster Grassland Society (UGS).
Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Michelle Gildernew MP, MLA welcomed members of the UGS and in particular three founding members of the Society, Alfie Danton, Alastair McGuckian and George Morrison. The Minister commended the foresight, leadership and enthusiasm exhibited by the pioneers of the Society and those who have steered the Society through subsequent years. She commented on the significant impact which the Society and its members have had on farming both here and across the world. After 50 years the UGS is still a vibrant organisation, deriving great energy from the synergy created when people from a variety of backgrounds come together to learn and exchange ideas.
Roy McClenaghan, President of the UGS welcomed Sarah Byford, President of the British Grassland Society (BGS), Pearse Kelly, President of the Irish Grassland Society, Philip Clarke, Chairman of the Fermanagh Grassland Club and Dr Malcolm McKibbin, Permanent Secretary DARD. He noted that during the past 50 years 23 of the Presidents were farmers, 11 scientists, 8 industry representatives, 6 DARD officials and 2 bank officials. 25 of the Former Presidents were able to attend the celebration. Also present was Walter Smyth who held the post of Secretary / Treasurer for some 25 years during which the membership rose to around 750.
Following an after dinner speech, delivered by Will Taylor, a former UGS and BGS President, the Minister presented scrolls to the Presidents and office bearers in recognition of their contribution to the Society.
Robin Morrow and George Morrison expressed thanks at the conclusion of the formalities. In addition to past Presidents and office bearers of the UGS the current committee members attended this memorable function
Event Gallery
