Wilson urges farmers and rural stakeholders to have their say on revised NAP proposals

Mr Wilson commented: “It is essential that farmers, landowners, agri-food businesses and all those who will be affected by these proposals take the opportunity to have their voices heard through this consultation process. Over the past year there has been considerable concern across the agricultural sector regarding the original NAP proposals. Farmers made it clear that while they recognise the importance of improving water quality, many of the measures initially brought forward were simply not practical, proportionate or deliverable.

"The strength of feeling expressed by farmers, industry representatives and elected representatives could not be ignored. As a result of sustained pressure and extensive engagement, many of the most excessive and unworkable elements of the original package have now been revised, reshaped or removed. That demonstrates the value of constructive engagement and the importance of speaking up when policies have the potential to damage rural livelihoods.

"While significant concerns remain, it is important to acknowledge that the stakeholder process has produced a markedly different set of proposals from those originally published. Greater flexibility has been introduced in several key areas, implementation has been phased in a more realistic manner, and there is a stronger recognition of the practical realities facing farm businesses.

"However, this is not the end of the process. These proposals still contain measures that could have significant implications for many farm businesses, particularly in relation to nutrient management, slurry spreading requirements, phosphorus controls and regulatory compliance. Farmers are rightly asking questions about costs, practicality, bureaucracy and the cumulative impact of environmental regulation on the future viability of family farms. Those concerns must continue to be heard loudly and clearly.

"I would therefore encourage every farmer, every agricultural organisation and every stakeholder with an interest in the future of our industry to read the proposals carefully and submit a response to the consultation. Northern Ireland's farmers have repeatedly demonstrated their commitment to producing food sustainably while protecting the environment. Any future regulatory framework must strike the right balance between improving water quality and sustaining a productive, profitable and competitive agri-food sector.

"The consultation provides an important opportunity to help shape the final outcome. I would urge everyone with an interest in protecting both our environment and our farming industry to take part, make their views known and ensure that any final NAP proposals are practical, evidence-based and capable of being delivered on the ground.”