The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) has always been supportive of the operation of Northern Ireland’s (NI) Assembly and Executive as the best way to address local needs. However, the absence of local Government and ministers over the past two years has meant that many much-needed decisions for our industry around investment, growth and key animal health issues such as the control of bovine TB have not been taken.
UFU president David Brown said, “While the previous agriculture minister made many strategic decisions that we have been able to progress in the absence of an Assembly, there are several major issues that need a ministerial decision. It is frustrating these couldn’t be addressed.”
Examples cited by the UFU president include the roll out of future direct farm support measures and the need to include sheep, decisions on wildlife intervention in a TB eradication programme and the need for clarity around ammonia controls and planning to help improve farms’ environmental footprint.
“We have yet to fully consider the details of the draft deal that has been proposed. We want to work with a new Executive to see decisions made locally to protect our region and grow our economy for the benefit of everyone who lives here. It is imperative we show support to our political leaders in securing the restoration of the Assembly and Executive. A priority for both must be the agri-food industry as a key part of the local economy,” said Mr Brown.
