Former farmers’ union president Nigel Miller has been appointed as the chairman of the newly-formed Ruminant Health and Welfare Group (RHWG).
Miller, a qualified vet and former NFU Scotland (NFUS) president, will lead the independent cattle and sheep industry group which is aimed at speeding up progress against endemic diseases and reputational challenges which are costing the cattle and sheep sectors at least £500 million a year.
Miller will take up the role from June 1, 2020, for a two-year term. He was appointed through open competition by a panel consisting of the chief veterinary officer for the UK, the chief veterinary officer for Scotland, the chief executive of the National Sheep Association and the chief technical officer for AHDB.
The RHWG has been formed following an industry-wide consultation that showed a strong majority supporting the move in principle, with many believing it will accelerate work to control conditions like liver fluke, mastitis and lameness.
Miller said: “Endemic diseases in ruminants do not respect country borders or political boundaries and are a significant concern to farmers, the wider industry, governments and consumers due to their impact on animal health, welfare and food production.
The RHWG will work independently to bring the industry and governments together to work collaboratively to speed up the fight against endemic disease in ruminants.
“I am committed to make this work for both sheep and cattle producers and excited to be part of a group that is focused on positive change.”
The RHWG is now seeking applications for the role of secretary-general to support the chairman in ensuring the work of the group is delivered at pace.
Track record
Nigel Miller is a qualified vet and began his NFUS career as chairman of the West Berwick Branch. He is a former chairman of the NFUS Livestock Committee.
Nigel was vice-president of NFUS from March 2007 and president from 2011 – 2015. He farms 1,500ac in partnership with two of his sons in the Scottish Borders.
The upland hill farm supports 160 cows and just over 1,000 breeding sheep, including hoggs. Nigel is also a Board member of Moredun Research Institute.
Miller will receive a non-pensionable remuneration of £7,379/year, based on a time commitment 24 days a year.
