Speaking after securing the commitment from the Finance Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly said:
“I am delighted that the Northern Ireland Executive has endorsed my call to ring-fence the agriculture support funding in the draft budget announced by the Finance Minister. This decision is a clear reflection of the importance the Democratic Unionist Party places on farming and the agri-food sector, which are critical to the economic wellbeing of Northern Ireland. Receiving full Executive support for my proposal is most welcome.
The agriculture sector is not only the backbone of our rural communities but also a keycontributor to jobs and exports. By protecting this budget, we are ensuring that farmers have certainty and stability over future support. This allows for effective on farm planning which is vital to sustainability, profitability and growth.
I want to thank the Ulster Farmers’ Union, who have been consistent advocates for the needs of the farming community, and who have engaged constructively in the budget process with the aim of securing this commitment.
2024 has been challenging for farming families, not least because of the actions of the Labour Government in their inheritance tax grab, but as we look ahead to the new year, the DUP will continue to prioritise policies that sustain family farms across Northern Ireland and grow our agri-food industry.”