Bid by ABC Council to boost agri food sector

The Food Heartland Agri-Food Plan 2021 was discussed at a meeting of Council’s economic development and regeneration committee.

The proposal to approve the plan was put forward by Council’s Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Kyle Savage who called for a line to be added to the plan seeking “a fair share of the profits throughout the food chain”.

A report outlining the £50,000 strategy detailed how council officers have heard first hand how Brexit and COVID-19 have had an impact on local agri-businesses while research and development and a drive for sustainability have presented opportunities.

The action plan, the report states, includes practical and innovative initiatives.

It will also support growth opportunities for artisan producers and leverage opportunities and mitigate disasters associated with Brexit.

The action plan, which will cost Council £50,000, is broken down into four sectors: food heartland voice (£15,000); support for larger businesses (£15,000); support for artisans and SMEs (£15,000); future trading arrangements (£5,000).

Councillor Savage said it was “great to see Council looking again at this sector”.

“I was speaking to a local shopkeeper the other day who was unable to get a product from his supplier because the larger supermarkets had bought it all up,” he said.

“I don’t like the fat cat food chain, it takes us to a point where 20 tonnes of carrots are tipped out because they are not the right shape and size.

“So a line to ensure that Council strives to obtain a fair share of the profits throughout the food chain is something I would really like to see added to this plan.”

Alderman Jim Speers said, “I am more than happy to second that line and the report. This is another step on the way to us claiming our rightful place as the food heartland of NI. It a sector that has ample opportunity for job creation.”