UFU takes farm cost crisis to government
The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) is intensifying its political engagement at both Stormont and Westminster, as pressures mount on farm businesses due to rising fuel, fertiliser and input costs.
UFU President William Irvine, is beginning a series of high-level meetings at Stormont on Monday 13th April, engaging with parties from across the political spectrum.
The UFU delegation will later travel to Westminster for a packed programme of meetings with MPs and peers from across the political spectrum, including all of the NI political parties as well as members of the House of Lords. The Union is also engaging directly with senior government figures and key decision-makers at the highest levels.
Speaking ahead of the engagements, UFU President William Irvine said farmers are facing a perfect storm of rising input costs, ongoing policy pressures and adverse weather conditions.
“This latest surge in fuel and fertiliser prices is another serious threat to the viability of farm businesses across Northern Ireland,” he said.
“Today’s meetings are about rapid engagement with MPs and government and coordinating cross-party support for action. We are already engaging at the highest levels of government to ensure there is a clear understanding of the scale and urgency of the situation facing farmers.”
Mr Irvine emphasised that the UFU is maintaining constant contact with industry stakeholders and senior political representatives.
“We are in direct contact with industry partners, political representatives and senior government officials. There is a collective push to ensure government acts and that the concerns of Northern Ireland farmers are fully understood.”
The UFU is calling for immediate, coordinated government action to address the exceptional rise in agricultural input costs, including targeted support measures and recognition of the strategic importance of food production.
“Without decisive intervention, there is a real risk to domestic food production and the long-term resilience of our agri-food sector,” he added.
“Farmers cannot continue to absorb these sustained pressures alone. This is another significant threat on top of the challenges farmers have already been dealing with, and we will continue to apply sustained pressure until meaningful action is delivered.”
The UFU will continue its engagement throughout the day and in the days ahead as part of a coordinated effort to secure practical solutions and support for farm businesses.
