The National Federation of Young Farmers’ Clubs (NFYFC) board of management has ruled that the federation will cancel its 2019 annual convention and no longer hold the event in future.
In a statement released today, the organisation said that the successes and celebrations inside the event venue are being “overshadowed” by incidents taking place outside of the organised official activities.
This year, the event made national headlines after some members were filmed engaging in antisocial behaviour in Blackpool.
With around 6,000 attendees, the convention is one of the most popular events on the Young Farmers’ calendar.
“After 50 years of hosting the event, the board believes it is time to refresh its offer to members and to bring its programme of activities more in line with its charitable aims to meet the needs of rural young people,” the statement read.
The Annual Convention was created to showcase the achievements of members, hold national competition finals and to host its Annual General Meeting.
The decision was made following feedback from NFYFC’s Council, County Federations and staff.
“While NFYFC recognises this will be disappointing news for many YFC members, partners and sponsors, the organisation is looking at how it can explore new opportunities to move forward.
The decision comes as the organisation moves to become a charitable company, which involves a complete review of its governance and structure.
“At the same time, NFYFC will continue to work with the membership to develop a new five-year strategic plan to ensure the organisation is relevant for rural young people today and in the future.
“This will create a programme of activities that delivers skills for life and helps young people aged from 10 to 26 to achieve their full potential.”
Members expelled
Any members NFYFC has identified through working with the police, county offices and other authorities have been expelled or been subject to the organisation’s disciplinary process.
NFYFC also informed all other members of the severity of the situation and invited to seek solutions and reflect on how, as an organisation, we can improve behaviour.
As a result, county federations have been tasked to review their own events, members’ behaviour and identify areas for improvement.
