02/08/2018

UFU Urges Govt To Ensure Brexit Presents Opportunities For The Industry

The Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU) has called on the Government to ensure Brexit will present new opportunities for the industry.

President Ivor Ferguson was responding to the publication of the Future Agricultural Policy framework.

Mr Ferguson said: "We have to make sure that Brexit is an opportunity for farmers here We need a policy better suited to local conditions than the CAP, which had to accommodate 28 very different member states. Our goal is a productive, sustainable and resilient farming industry, and this document is a good start to securing that."

The UFU said it is essential the local share of UK farm support remains the same as now, but farmers recognise the delivery model is going to change. 

Mr Ferguson continued: "Whatever decisions are made, it is vital that we end up with a model that is simple and avoids red tape. It must be targeted at those who take the risks in primary food production. This is an opportunity to create a better system, and it is essential we take this chance to get it right."

(CD/LM)

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