Chairman’s Christmas Message
The past year has been a very trying time for those of us involved with livestock. The impact of recurring disease outbreaks has cast a long shadow over 2007. Throughout these uncertain days RBST has been actively urging government to establish a clear policy to combat the ongoing threat of Bluetongue Disease; we have managed to permanently establish the Breeds at Risk register as a possible defence against the culling policy which accompanies Foot and Mouth Disease and we made valuable links with the Poultry Club of Great Britain just as Avian Influenza invaded our shores once again.
In many ways we have all faced additional tasks and considerable disruption to our normal daily rounds and yet the spirit of commitment and enthusiasm has been ever present in the many members I have met over recent months. These enduring qualities have enabled RBST to do so much to champion our native breeds over thirty or more years and it is reassuring to be able to call upon the energies of fellow members to help meet the current challenges.
It is our collective understanding of the importance of our native breeds that enables RBST to achieve such a high standing within the network of conservation organisations at home and abroad and it is our dedication to our primary aims that maintains our credibility with political policy makers.
While the New Year will bring new beginnings we will continue the process, started in 2007, to make our organisation fit to deliver the vision outlined in “The Way Forward.” Before we get there, we have the prospect of the Christmas Season upon us and I take this opportunity to send good wishes on behalf of the Council and Staff of RBST, and the hope that 2008 will bring good health and happiness.
Peter Titley
Chairman