Sainsbury’s and ABP set up “Farm Connections”

Jason McFerran – IT Technologist, Greenmount Campus, CAFRE
28 August 2008

“Farm Connections” is an industry lead scheme designed to get more livestock producers using IT in their business. Working with producers who supply the beef for Sainsbury's Taste the Difference, Ultimate and SO Organic ranges through Anglo Beef Processors (ABP), the scheme aims to get 700 beef suppliers equipped with a laptop, printer, and beef management software programs for use on the farm. Training and support are also key elements of “Farm Connections” ensuring best use is made of the IT on offer. Sainsbury’s has provided all of the hardware and software for the scheme which has been running across the UK for the last year.

The scheme was designed to be easily accessible with relevant agricultural content, to make it simple and straightforward for the farmers to participate. Many of the farmers given a laptop had never used a computer before, so much of the six weeks training was at an introductory level. It is hoped that the farm businesses will benefit from the equipment received and the IT skills learnt. Already farmers have started to keep their herd records electronically, and use the internet and email to search for information relevant to the farm. This will make it easier to register cattle births and movements with DARD as well as making communication with processors easier.

At a recent Farm Connections course in Newry, ten farmers were registered to use Aphis Online, DARD’s Internet based cattle registration, movement and information system. This allowed them to download their current herd list to use in their new beef management software. This training was delivered by Jason McFerran, Greenmount Campus, College of Agriculture and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE).

CAFRE are continuing to offer IT courses from September through April in venues across Northern Ireland including Armagh, Ballynahinch, Ballymoney, Fivemiletown, and Omagh, as well as at Greenmount and Loughry Campuses. These courses are offered free to farmers and growers. For more information or to book a place on a course please contact Greenmount Campus on 028 9442 6819, email atddress enquiries@cafre.ac.uk or visit the CAFRE website. Places are limited and will be allocated on a first come first served basis.