Next Generation Forum engages with AERA Committee Chair

UFU's/YFCU Next Generation Forum met with Diana Armstrong MLA, Chair of the Assembly's AERA Committee, for an open and wide-ranging discussion on the issues shaping the future of farming in Northern Ireland.

The discussion covered future agricultural support and the need for greater clarity for young farmers, alongside arable, beef and sheep support, planning and ammonia, environmental regulation and the Nutrients Action Programme, bovine TB, rising costs and competitiveness, and specific challenges facing the sheep sector.

Members were able to bring their own experiences into the conversation and discuss directly how policy decisions are affecting farm businesses and the prospects for the next generation.

The group found the engagement incredibly valuable, providing an opportunity not only to raise concerns but to have a genuine two-way discussion about the future direction of agricultural policy.

UFU thanks Diana for taking the time to engage so openly with the Next Generation Forum. Ensuring the voices of younger farmers are heard by policymakers will continue to be an important part of the Forum's work.