Appointments to the Northern Ireland Food Advisory Committee

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is recruiting five new members to join the Northern Ireland Food Advisory Committee (NIFAC)

NIFAC acts as an independent advisory body to the FSA. It is chaired by the FSA Board Member for Northern Ireland, Anthony Harbinson. Its role is to advise the Agency on food and feed issues, with particular emphasis on Northern Ireland.

The Committee explores a range of themes from a country-specific perspective. Undertaking meetings and site visits across Northern Ireland, the Committee engages directly with stakeholders and seeks to draw on stakeholder insights to inform its considerations and advice. Over the last 12 months, NIFAC has explored and provided advice on a range of issues including the future of food regulation, food crime, the role of science and surveillance in FSA decision making and Lough Neagh.

Anthony Harbinson, FSA Board Member for Northern Ireland and Chair of NIFAC, said:

This is an exciting opportunity to join NIFAC. The Committee seeks to provide advice to the FSA on matters related to food and feed, particularly as they relate to Northern Ireland. NIFAC members use their expertise to help advise on policy and to engage with stakeholders across Northern Ireland.
As a member of the Committee, you will contribute to discussions on some of the most important issues affecting the food system, bringing your knowledge and experience to help inform evidence-based decision-making. The role offers a unique opportunity to work alongside a diverse group of experts, gain insight into emerging challenges and opportunities in food policy and ensure that Northern Ireland perspectives are reflected in the FSA’s work.

The FSA is looking for applicants with experience in one or more of the following areas:

• the food industry (agricultural to retail)
• farming
• public health
• consumer interests
• environmental health
• nutrition
• food or agricultural science/education
• public policy development