UFU president William Irvine on his County Armagh farm. Picture: Cliff Donaldson
The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) is calling on all farmers, landowners, and supporters of the agricultural community to stand together in a show of unity at a rally to overturn family farm tax. The rally will take place on Monday, 18 November 2024, at the Eikon Exhibition Centre, 7.30pm.
The rally is in response to changes in the budget to change Agricultural Property Relief, which threatens the future of family farms. The farming lobby across the UK is united in its opposition to this ill-conceived decision.
UFU president William Irvine said, “This is a direct threat to the sustainability of our family farms and the livelihoods of over 24,000 farming families across Northern Ireland. This change impacts not only our farm businesses but also the generations who will inherit and care for the land. We cannot stand by as these decisions are made without our voices being heard. This rally is about standing together, mobilising, and ensuring our message is clear – we will not accept policies that undermine the hard work, resilience, and heritage of our farming community.”
The UFU launched its key actions for UFU members to help overturn family farm tax:
- Sign the petition: Complete the UFU petition to overturn this “family farm tax” and demand fair policies that reflect our industry’s unique challenges.
- Attend the rally: Join us at the Eikon Exhibition Centre on Monday, 18 November, 7.30pm, to make our voices heard. Our collective strength will send a strong message as we prepare to support our president’s attendance at the NFU demonstration in London.
- Contact your MP: Reach out to your local MP to share the impact APR changes will have on your family and community. Let your story and commitment to farming be known.
- Spread the word: Encourage friends, family, and supporters to join our cause. The more voices we bring together, the harder it will be for government officials to ignore our demands.
Mr Irvine added that the UFU remains committed to fighting for the future of farming in Northern Ireland. “Join us as we rally to protect our heritage, our livelihoods, and our right to farm. Together, we will show the government that unity is our greatest strength,” said the UFU president.
To sign the UFU’s petition to overturn family farm tax, click here.
