Sinn Féin MLA Declan McAleer has welcomed the passing of a motion calling for support for upland sheep farmers.
The party’s agriculture spokesperson said:
“I welcome cross-party support for Sinn Féin’s motion today which recognises the vital role upland sheep farmers play in our thriving food industry, and the need for improved support.
“Brexit has compounded issues faced by sheep farmers with the removal of a ring-fenced budget, leaving farmers questioning their future viability. Upland sheep farmers also face additional challenges due to farming on difficult landscapes.
“Also, the British government’s family farm tax has heaped further pressure on already hard-pressed farmers whose livelihoods are now at real risk.
“The agriculture minister must now outline his plans to protect the future of sheep farming, including implementing the recommendations of the Sheep Industry Taskforce to improve efficiency and sustainability.”
