McAleer welcomes £25 million support for agriculture and horticulture

Declan McAleer said: “The £25 million announced today by my party colleague, Finance Minister Conor Murphy, for agricultural and horticultural businesses is welcome.

“Farmers and those involved in horticulture have been particularly badly hit by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and many businesses are struggling.

“This funding will go some way to helping to address the problems the pandemic has created for the sector.

“It is important this money goes to those who need it most at this difficult time and I will be making that clear to the Agriculture Minister and departmental officials so that the full benefit of this significant funding announcement can be felt where it matters most.”

The announcement has also been welcomed by MLA Jonathan Buckley, who said: “I’m delighted that the Minister for Finance has allocated £25 million to fund a support package for farmers and the horticulture industry.

“Farmers represent the backbone of the Northern Irish economy and many have endured significant economic disruption throughout COVID-19.

“The Minister for Agriculture, Rural Affairs and Environment will make an announcement detailing the allocation of this funding in the coming days.”