UFU urges FSA to maintain vital support for NI meat sector

The Ulster Farmers’ Union has responded to the Food Standards Agency’s consultation on proposed changes to financial support for abattoirs and game handling establishments, warning that the removal of the meat charging discount scheme would place further pressure on Northern Ireland’s family farms.

UFU deputy president Clement Lynch said the union has made clear that Northern Ireland’s agri-food sector is structured differently from other parts of the UK, with a high number of small family farms supplying a relatively small number of larger processors, “NI farmers are already operating under severe financial pressure, with rising input costs, volatile markets and reduced direct support. Any additional processing costs are likely to be passed back down the supply chain to primary producers, many of whom simply cannot absorb them,” said Mr Lynch.

“The UFU has stressed to the FSA that Northern Ireland’s unique circumstances must be fully recognised. Our livestock and poultry sectors are central to the rural economy, supporting jobs, local communities and food production across the province.

“We hope the FSA will listen carefully to the concerns raised by the UFU and the wider industry, and maintain the vital support needed to protect Northern Ireland’s farmers, processors and the wider agri-food supply chain.”

The UFU believes continued support is essential to ensure NI farmers are not placed at a competitive disadvantage and that the strength and resilience of the local meat sector is protected.