New Forest Equine Forum (NFEF)

We are conscious that updates and news from FUG have been scarce for the past couple of months, but we are pleased to now be able to announce that the activity behind the scenes has been continuing unabated.

Following the appointment of the new Interim Chief Executive, Barrie Foley, we have had numerous meetings and telephone conversations with both Barrie and other NPA officers. We are especially pleased to announce the formation of a new advisory group, the New Forest Equine Forum (NFEF), created to represent the views, concerns and perspective of the equine community in the New Forest.

The idea for this forum came out of one of the Workshops for stakeholders within the equestrian community, and is formed of representatives from key equestrian groups and other bodies having an interest in or direct relationship with the equestrian community. Participating organisations/sectors include:

• New Forest Pony Breeding and Cattle Society
• Commoners Defence Association
• British Horse Society
• New Forest Pony Enthusiasts
• Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust
• Natural England
• New Forest National Park Authority
• Two private horse owners 
• Farrier
• New Forest Equine businesses
• New Forest Pony Publicity Group
• Veterinarian
• Forestry Commission
• New Forest Equestrian Association
• Forest Uprising Group

Two meetings have thus far been held, with secretariat and meeting room facilities kindly supplied by NFNPA, although we would emphasise that the group is very firmly independent of the NFNPA. Clearly the prime motivator for the formation of the group were the issues that have arisen from the publication of the Draft Plan in August 2008, and at the present time this continues to monopolise our discussions.

Thus far the dialogue is proving very positive and constructive, with all parties tasked with representing their sponsoring organisations perspective, but all with the mutual goal of achieving a revised Plan that, in respect of the equine matters, will be fair, workable and actively embraced by all. To date, progress is promising.

Going forwards, having hopefully achieved our short term goals, we will seek to represent the needs of the equestrian community in dialogue and consultation with the NFNPA. Practical advice and information for those involved with equines in the New Forest will be made available. A website will shortly be in place with our Constitution, Position Statement, and minutes of meetings, general information, and contact details available to all. In the meantime, if you wish to learn more, or have an issue or concern you would like the forum to address, please do contact a committee member or representative from any of the above organisations who will endeavour to put you in contact with the appropriate person.

Tina Cant

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