McAleer confirms need for continuing industry support

Speaking at a recent meeting of the committee he said that a report produced by Queens University had confirmed that approximately 30% of farms in Northern Ireland would cease to function without direct financial support.

He added: “The closure of farms would have a devastating impact for our rural communities, with unemployment and land abandonment coming as two particularly worrying consequence.

“Between 2014 and 2020, there has been over £2.3 billion worth of Common Agricultural Policy funding delivered for farms; this accounting for 87% of annual farm incomes. It is vital for the future of the agricultural industry and our rural communities that the Common Agricultural Policy is maintained post-Brexit.

“I would also encourage the current Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister to implement reforms and incentives which were brought forward by then Agriculture Minister Michelle O’Neill.

“These include an equal ‘flat rate’ per entitlement, capping payments, a young farmers scheme and targeting payments to those who are active farmers.   

“In the North and the island of Ireland, farmers are the custodians of the countryside. Sinn Féin are committed to ensuring that farmers and our rural communities are fully supported in the time ahead.”

Meanwhile, DUP MP for Upper Bann Carla Lockhart will be her party’s new Westminster spokesperson for the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

She said: “Growing up on the family farm and as a farmer’s wife I always have taken a keen interest in our local farming community. Our agriculture sector and, indeed our fishing industry, are key drivers in our local economy.

“As we chart a new course outside of the European Union it is vital that the interests of farmers, fishermen and our wider agri-food industry are protected and afforded the support to thrive. The benefit of having a local Executive in place cannot be underestimated in this objective, and I have every confidence that my colleague Minister Edwin Poots will be a strong advocate for Northern Ireland as DAERA Minister.

“However, we also need a pro-active approach at Westminster, and working in tandem with Edwin and the DUP team I will ensure that our interests are well known in the House of Commons.

“In the coming weeks I look forward to engaging with stakeholders to determine their priorities and would encourage those wanting to engage to get in touch.”