UFU president William Irvine on his County Armagh farm. Picture: Cliff Donaldson
The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) office bearer team attended a crucial meeting with DAERA Minister Andrew Muir at Stormont yesterday (26 November), which focused on the changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and the pressing need to address the disproportionate impact on Northern Ireland farmers due to higher land prices and ownership.
UFU president William Irvine said, “We had an open and productive discussion with Minister Muir and his officials on the inheritance tax changes. The DAERA Minister and UFU agreed that NI farmers are bearing a heavier burden compared to the rest of the UK. Our land ownership is different and prices are simply much higher. The Treasury’s figures are wrong. The UK Government has asked for more evidence to prove this, and we need this analysis done now as time is running out. DAERA are best placed to do this, but we have offered to assist if necessary – The clock is ticking.”
The UFU also says it is vital the NI executive secure a multi-year, ring-fenced funding commitment that safeguards the NI agriculture industry.
“On the specific issue of ring-fencing this agricultural budget, there is some positive momentum. We understand that a consultation on the NI Executive’s proposals for its future departmental allocations will take place before the end of the year. The mood music is encouraging, with support coming from all political parties. But let’s not fool ourselves – we need this budget to be protected indefinitely and linked to inflation.
“We also discussed the ongoing issue of supply chain fairness. We know that our farmers have been at the mercy of unfair practices for far too long. The DAERA Minister and his team have shown a genuine interest in addressing this issue, and further discussions will take place. We’ll be watching closely, as it’s time the supply chain worked for our farmers, not against them,” added Mr Irvine.
Brief discussions were also held regarding the pressing issues of bovine TB and the impact of ammonia on planning with announcements expected soon. “Both TB and ammonia are critical issues that require urgent attention. We will continue to advocate for solutions that work for our farmers and the wider rural community.
“Yesterday’s meeting was an important step forward and we welcome the Minister’s support to resolving the issues arising from the UK Budget, but there is much more to do. The UFU will continue to fight relentlessly for fair treatment for our farmers and growers. We need action, not words,” said the UFU president.
