The newly appointed Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs Minister of Northern Ireland, Andrew Muir, has been alerted about the "extreme financial pressure" the agricultural sector is currently experiencing. This warning comes from David Brown, the president of the Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU).
The return of a minister to the Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has been appreciated, especially after the Northern Ireland Executive collapsed in February 2022, which led to a halt in decision-making. Brown emphasized the need for an urgent resumption of decision-making.
Brown stated, "Andrew Muir takes on the agriculture brief at a time when the industry is under extreme financial pressure. Agriculture is the backbone of the Northern Ireland economy, and it is vital that Minister Muir supports local food security to help safeguard Northern Ireland's agri-industry."
Muir has expressed his immediate focus will be on finding appropriate responses to the immediate environmental and agricultural challenges. He also acknowledged the significance of the agri-sector to the economy, food security, and environmental obligations. He is aware of the many challenges, including the devastating impact of bovine TB on farms and the economy.
The UFU president is now urging the minister to implement future direct farm support measures and make decisions on wildlife intervention in a TB eradication program. Brown concluded, "We look forward to meeting with Minister Muir and his executive ministerial colleagues to make decisions ensuring pressing and strategic issues are addressed as quickly as possible to safeguard Northern Ireland's family farms and agri-businesses."
Source: agriland.co.uk