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Farmers’ spirits boosted by good weather but cash flow still an issue

The good weather this week has helped to boost to the spirits of Northern Ireland’s livestock farmers following on from months unpredictable weather, however, cash flow is still at the forefront of many farmers minds.

Ulster Farmers’ Union President Harry Sinclair said; “It is great to see the sun shining and the forecast is promising more weather like this in the week to come. The sun can make all the difference and our livestock farmers really needed weather like this to give a boost to their spirits. Farmers are making the most of the good weather, livestock are being turned out into the fields and preparations are underway for making silage but at the forefront of many farmers minds will be the issue of cash flow. Many were hit hard by snow, or felt the crunch of the fodder crisis and this has had a significant impact on farm finances. The Union is working hard to see measures put in place that will help to ease this financial pressure but in the meantime farmers must remember they are not alone and that there is help and support for them if they need it.”
Rural Support is an independent charity that can provide help and support to farmers who are worried about their current circumstances. The charity operates a confidential helpline, which offers a listening and signposting service. 

Rural Support Development Director Jude McCann said; “In the past month calls to our helpline have quadrupled, which gives an indication that many farmers are facing a considerable amount of stress. Despite the change in the weather, the issues concerning farmers haven’t just disappeared. The Rural Support helpline offers confidential support to callers and often it can help to just talk to someone about what is going on. Our staff are fully trained and depending on an individual’s needs we can identify what supports or services might help.”

Harry Sinclair concluded; “I would encourage anyone feeling under pressure to contact Rural Support. It is 100% confidential and the support they can provide is invaluable. Practical support is also available and farmers can contact their DARD adviser about the day to day management of the farm and also for help with forward planning. 

“I know farmers have a lot on their minds and with the sun shining they will just want to be out working but we all need to be thinking ahead to next winter. Usually, livestock farmers would have a small supply of fodder coming out of winter but this year fodder reserves across the Province have been completely exhausted. The very poor start to this year’s grass growing season also has the potential to put farmers under pressure next winter. Now is the time to be thinking ahead and planning for the coming winter months.”

The UFU will continue to lobby for measures to help ease cash flow pressure and any farmer looking for help and support can contact the Rural Support helpline on 0845 606 7 607 or visit their website at www.ruralsupport.org.uk