The Ulster Farmers’ Union was in County Down today meeting with farmers there affected by the severe winter weather.
UFU Deputy President Barclay Bell said; “The scenes I have witnessed over the past two days can only be described as heartbreaking. Many farmers have found themselves in very extremely difficult situations and they been working tirelessly to do whatever they can to look after their families and farms. I have also witnessed the rural community spirit in action as farmers go to great lengths to help one another, and the public, during this testing time.
“At the moment, the UFU’s main concern is getting help to the farmers. The announcement from the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development that air drops of fodder will be commencing and that tracked vehicles are also being used to deliver supplies to hard to reach areas is a welcome development. The farmers affected by the extreme weather need all the help they can get and I am pleased that DARD has taken action. In the coming days as the snow melts we will be able to begin to make a full assessment of what financial impact this weather has had on farms in the County Down and Antrim areas. The issue of compensation will be a conversation that needs to be had and I welcome the fact that is already on the Northern Ireland Executive’s agenda but in the meantime the immediate priority must be to get help to farmers.”
Farmers experiencing problems should contact the DARD weather helpline number on 0300 200 7852.
