Nicholson warns of ‘far reaching effects’ for all

In a statement Mr Nicholson said he has always maintained that the agriculture industry as a whole was not part of problem.

He continued: “Rather they are and should be part of the solution. The last thing anyone wants is a point scoring exercise which will achieve nothing but press headlines and will not contribute to any environmental improvement. While I realise it is necessary to set dates and goals, I believe that they must be realistic and achievable.

“We must also take on board and embrace new ideas and work closely with the science base as to how we can improve present production and improve animal input by improving the diet animals are fed and how better to reduce emissions. While this is the way forward everyone must realise you cannot turn animals on and off like a tap. This will require time, money, investment, and a proactive educational role for farmers as to how they can make a positive contribution to the future of the environment in the decades ahead,” the former MEP said.

“Government must do more than use scare tactics to what I can only describe as their lack of leadership on all matters environmental. I believe now is the time to have a carrot and stick approach rather than the other way around as it has been to encourage the industry to meet the challenges of the next decades.

“There will also be many new challenges for the farmers who need to stop being defensive all the time and be more proactive and positive for they have a great position from which to contribute.

“I would strongly encourage all the relevant bodies to approach this challenge with a positive frame of mind, I have always believed we could do much more to encourage our forestry sector by the development of new forests. The planting of more trees can only be positive, especially in areas not suitable for agriculture production.

“Are we doing enough to protect our peatlands ensuring they are being properly maintained as Northern Ireland has the ability to sequester a lot of carbon that can very easily be offset? Everyone has to buy in to ensure the project is successful. Reducing carbon emissions will be no easy task but it can be achieved.”

Mr Nicholson concluded: “No government can say to their farmers reduce your livestock numbers if they are at the same time importing food from countries not meeting the same environmental and animal welfare standards.”