UFU Deputy President William Irvine on his County Armagh farm. Picture: Cliff Donaldson
The Ulster Farmers’ Union has submitted a detailed budget proposal to the UK government in response to Chancellor Rachael Reeves MP’s spending audit directive. The UFU submission underscores the urgent need for a multi-annual, ring-fenced commitment to agriculture and rural economy funding in the upcoming budget, ensuring that Northern Ireland’s farmers are adequately supported during these challenging times.
UFU president William Irvine said, “The UFU’s submission on the UK budget proposal follows our robust lobbying campaign in the run up to the general election. As part of this, we presented three critical priorities that are needed to support NI’s farming families and help ensure a sustainable future for our agri-food industry. These were: a dedicated future support and development budget for farming; a clear and constructive relationship between the UK and Europe; and a commitment to ensuring the UK’s food and energy security.
“The agricultural sector in NI faces significant pressures from rising production costs and low returns, to the uncertainties of post-Brexit trade and the impact of climate change. Farmers need the backing of the UK Treasury now more than ever to remain competitive, sustainable and to be capable of meeting the growing demands that is placed on them. Our submission calls for increased financial assistance to ensure that NI’s farmers have essential resources so that they can continue producing high-quality, sustainable food, reducing the UK’s reliance on imports.”
With 670,000 people living in rural NI and the agri-food sector forming the backbone of its economy, increased funding will secure thousands of jobs, both in farming and across the wider agricultural supply chain. The ripple effects of which, will be felt by local businesses and communities that depend heavily on agriculture.
In its response, the UFU also highlights the potential for government support to empower farmers to adopt environmentally sustainable practices. Such investments in green farming technologies will allow local farmers to reduce emissions, protect biodiversity, and contribute to the UK’s climate change goals while remaining productive.
“The time for action is now. We urge the UK Treasury to recognise the unique challenges faced by NI farmers and to commit to long-term financial support. Doing so will not only ensure the survival of the agricultural sector, but it will also help boost the UK’s food security, rural economy, and environmental goals. By working together, we can ensure that the future of NI’s farming is sustainable, resilient and prosperous for generations to come,” said Mr Irvine.
On Wednesday 11 September, Back British Farming Day takes place which will see farming representatives and political figures coming together to celebrate local agriculture.
“This week, I will be in London for the annual Back British Farming Day initiative. This is a great opportunity to shine a light on UK agriculture and bring together MLAs and MPs. During my engagements at this event, I will be reiterating the critical need for a commitment to agriculture and rural economy funding in the upcoming budget. Everyone of us rely on access to quality food daily, and by backing local farming, everyone in the UK will benefit,” says Mr Irvine.
