Later today in the Northern Ireland Assembly, the DUP will bring forward a debate calling on the DAERA Minister, Andrew Muir, to scrap his current Nutrients Action Programme proposals. These proposals are nothing short of disastrous for agriculture in Northern Ireland.
The proposals rely on data that has already been proven to be flawed and inaccurate. Farmers across Northern Ireland are rightly alarmed not only at the substance of the plans, but at the way in which they are being pushed forward by the Minister without proper engagement with the industry or those who will be most impacted.
Agriculture is not an inconvenience in Northern Ireland. It is a cornerstone of our economy, our rural communities, and our way of life. The agri-food sector is worth around £5.4 billion to our local economy and supports over 100,000 jobs. Undermining it in this way risks not only livelihoods but the sustainability of our rural economy for generations to come.
We are absolutely committed to addressing the environmental crisis in Lough Neagh. However, this must be done through balanced, evidence-led solutions that work with farmers, not against them or by scapegoating. Environmental protection and farming are not enemies, but they should be partners when the right approach is taken.
