NSA representatives recently outlined their key concerns and priorities to DAERA, emphasising the need for collaborative action and supportive policies to “ensure the continued viability of the sector”.
The National Sheep Association (NSA) met with Minister Andrew Muir and officials from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to address the challenges and opportunities facing the Northern Ireland sheep sector.
The meeting focused on a number of key issues including sheep support within the Basic Payment Scheme (BPS), with NSA highlighting the need for continued and targeted support for sheep farmers within the revised BPS to ensure the sector’s competitiveness.
NSA Northern Ireland Region chair Alastair Armstrong said: “The sheep industry in Northern Ireland has a significant role to play in the future of agriculture, diverting of funds away from this will see many sheep farms struggle to remain financially viable.”
Concerns were raised regarding sheep health and welfare, in particular the threats of Maedi Visna (MV) and Bluetongue. NSA looked at the “potentially devastating” impact these diseases could have on the national flock, with NSA stressing the importance of proactive measures to protect the national flock.
Commenting, NSA Northern Ireland Region committee representative Edward Adamson added: “NSA recognises that the sheep sector must play its part in reaching the goals of The N.I. Climate Change Act 2022 and to us sheep health should be high on the agenda to help achieve carbon neutrality. A healthy flock will be more productive at a lesser cost and NSA does encourage sheep farmers towards higher health.”
NSA representatives expressed their appreciation for the opportunity to engage with the Minister and DAERA officials, stating that they were “particularly encouraged by the evident understanding of the industry’s concerns” and the willingness expressed to explore potential solutions and provide support where possible. Both NSA and DAERA officials acknowledged the importance of continued engagement to “navigate the challenges that lie ahead” for the industry.
