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CAFRE

Alexander Kinnear – CAFRE Alumni

  1. What course did you study at CAFRE? 

I first started CAFRE in September 2014 where I studied the three-year Extended Diploma in Agriculture graduating in June 2017 with triple distinction star (D*D*D*). In September 2017, I progressed on to the four-year Degree in Agricultural Technology graduating in June 2021 with a First Class Honours. 

  1. Why did you decide to study at CAFRE? 

I couldn’t really see myself undertaking A-Levels and probably wouldn’t have committed myself to them had I chosen that path. I had no intension of undertaking the degree programme when I first started CAFRE but was encouraged to apply by CAFRE staff and I’m very glad I did. I would encourage anyone to undertake a degree in agriculture, completing the extended diploma ensures you are well equipped to carry on into further education. CAFRE have a range of excellent placement opportunities. During my Level 3 course I spent a year on a New Zealand dairy farm and as part of my degree I spent a year with the UFU as a technical officer. Both these placements really improved my overall employability. 

  1. What is your current job and responsibilities? 

I am currently Ulster Farmers Union Parliamentary Officer. My role is to build the profile, credibility, and influence of the UFU with politicians, political parties, and opinion formers in order to influence government policy and legislation to benefit the Northern Ireland agricultural industry. To do this some of my time is spent at Stormont liaising with politicians particularly AERA committee and AG reps, lobbying on policy areas and watching debates. I also spend time at Westminster working with all NI Members of Parliament and House of Lords members explaining policy and raising issues to be addressed. Lastly, I spend time in Brussels, visiting once a month and, meeting with the NI executive Office and EU Commission officials explaining the effects of the NI Protocol both positive and negative.  

  1. Do you have a typical working day? 

No, my days/ weeks vary significantly depending on what is happening in Agri current affairs. I spend quite a bit of time travelling but usually never away for more than a working week. Typical days include meetings both internally UFU where we discuss policy, I am briefed on a particular area, or I am relaying information to UFU on legislation develops or political situations. Externally I meet with politicians and DAERA policy staff at Stormont for example and provide briefings on specific topics. I also help respond to consultations for example the House of Lords are currently asking for views on the NI Protocol and NI Protocol Bills. 

  1. What is the best thing about your job? 

I enjoy travelling very much with my role, I visit Brussels roughly once a month and travel to London from time to time. I recently attended the COPA & Cogeca European farmers congress in Croatia. 

  1. What is the greatest challenge of your job? 

Prioritising workload can be difficult as within the role there is three Parliaments to cover, with many big-ticket issues all requiring lots of attention being discussed and developed on the NI Protocol, climate change, TB and the impacts of the Ukraine War. Lobbying is not so much about shouting the loudest but making your point constructively to be effective. With all the uncertainty going on at the minute it would be very easy to become demotivated, but I find its best to take the ‘glass half full’ approach and do your best.   

  1. What is your fondest memory of your time at CAFRE? 

I have lots of fond memories at CAFRE, taking part in social activities and making what hopefully will be lifelong friends. I always enjoyed the lectures; staff always took the time to explain and help when needed.   

  1. Do you keep in touch with fellow students who were in your class? 

Yes, I regularly speak with former classmates and meet up from time to time. I also often see former students at events through work. 

  1. What advice would you give a new graduate? 

Take every opportunity you can get. Travel the world if you can before full time employment or going home to farm. You can spend a lifetime working on your home farm and NI is a small place. Experience different agricultural systems and cultures before going back to your home farm if that is your plan.