UFU submits Nutrients Action Programme response

UFU extends vote of no confidence and calls for resignations

The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has formally submitted its response to DAERA’s consultation on the proposed Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) 2027-2030 following approval by the Union’s Executive Committee. The response reflects extensive engagement with UFU policy committees, member webinars, the Environment Committee and farmers from across all sectors of Northern Ireland agriculture.

UFU president John McLenaghan said the Union had worked hard throughout the review process to secure a more practical outcome for farmers while recognising the need to improve water quality.

“The UFU recognises that agriculture has a role to play in improving water quality and protecting the environment. However, any measures introduced must be practical, proportionate and economically sustainable for farm businesses. The proposals currently out for consultation are considerably more workable than those originally presented by DAERA in 2025. That improvement is a direct result of significant engagement between industry stakeholders and the Department through the Task and Finish Group process.
”While the UFU has secured several important improvements, implementation must be backed by adequate funding, practical support, realistic transition periods and real practical and meaningful progress on planning reform if these measures are to succeed.”

The UFU response highlights continued concerns around planning restrictions, the cost of compliance, the impact of revised dairy cow nitrogen excretion figures and the need for further support to help farmers adapt to future requirements. It also calls for an urgent second round of the Soil Nutrient Health Scheme and greater investment in technologies that can help improve nutrient efficiency and water quality.

Mr McLenaghan said the farming industry’s contribution over the last two decades must be recognised, stating, “Northern Ireland farmers have been operating under the Nitrates Action Programme and subsequent Nutrients Action Programme regulations for more than 20 years. During that time, farmers have demonstrated a willingness to engage, adapt and invest in measures designed to improve water quality.

“The farming community has accepted its responsibilities and has played its part. That contribution must be recognised. Agriculture will play its part over the next four years but, equally, there must be a commitment to properly assess and acknowledge the role of all other sectors. If, at the end of this NAP period, water quality objectives are not being achieved, it cannot simply be assumed that additional regulation for farmers is the answer. DAERA must be prepared to examine the contribution from wastewater treatment works, sewer overflows, septic tanks and urban runoff and ensure responsibility is shared fairly across society. Northern Ireland will only achieve meaningful improvements in water quality if all sources of pollution are addressed.”

The UFU has encouraged members to submit their own responses before the consultation closes on 7 September.