UFU deputy president, Clement Lynch
The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has written to DAERA Minister Andrew Muir MLA outlining the industry’s need for financial support to help Northern Ireland’s horticulture sector remain competitive until such time as a level playing field is established across all UK regions.
The correspondence follows a meeting between the UFU and the Minister last month on the farm of UFU vegetable committee chair Trevor Gabbie, where a range of challenges facing commercial growers were discussed.
A follow-up meeting, held on 19 August 2026 at CAFRE Greenmount, brought together growers, agrochemical representatives and DAERA officials to consider a number of options aimed at improving access to plant protection products and supporting applications for Extensions of Authorisation (EAs) and Extensions of Authorisation for Minor Uses (EAMUs).
UFU deputy president Clement Lynch said, “There is a clear consensus that the industry is prepared to play its part during this uncertain and complex period. However, industry alone cannot bear the burden. Our growers need support.
“Professional growers in Northern Ireland have already adopted Integrated Pest Management principles and alternative crop protection approaches wherever possible. Despite this, access to effective plant protection products remains critical for productive and sustainable crop production.”
In its letter, the UFU has asked DAERA to provide financial assistance to cover the additional costs associated with individual EA and EAMU applications.
Mr Lynch continued, “This is now an urgent issue within the current growing cycle. Growers need certainty and support now while wider negotiations continue.
“The outcome of the UK-EU SPS agreement will be critical in determining a long-term solution. In the meantime, the UFU is calling on DAERA to provide financial assistance to bridge the gap and ensure Northern Ireland horticultural businesses are not placed at a competitive disadvantage.”
The UFU will continue to engage constructively with DAERA and other stakeholders to secure practical solutions that support horticultural businesses.
