Latest news with #NutrientsActionProgramme
Agriland
3 days ago
- Politics
- Agriland
Minister Muir responds to concerns raised over NI Nutrients Action Programme
Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Minister Andrew Muir has responded to concerns raised over Northern Ireland's Nutrients Action Programme (NAP). Opposition mounted in recent months against the draft NAP proposals announced this year by Minister Andrew Muir. In May, Minister Muir launched a public consultation on the NAP for 2026-2029, which he said contains 'additional measures which have been developed based on scientific research'. The main additional measures include further restrictions on use of chemical phosphorus fertiliser and a farm phosphorus balance limit for more intensive farms. In late May, representatives from across the farming and food industry in NI, including the Ulster Farmers' Union, wrote to Minister Muir, to highlight concerns about proposed changes. In the letter, industry said: "We are particularly concerned about how the science is being used, the complete lack of economic impact analysis and inconsistencies between certain measures within this consultation document and other policies which makes it difficult for stakeholders to comment on these proposals." The letter warned that the impact of proposals could be "far-reaching for the rural economy and indeed all of NI and it is therefore untenable that a proper impact assessment has not been carried out". Minister Muir has now responded to the open letter from the agri-food industry. His response letter, dated August 4, says: "The NAP was introduced 18 years ago to fulfil our legal requirement to reduce water pollution from agricultural sources. "I wish to again recognise the hard work farmers and others have undertaken to date to address water quality. "Your statement reiterating that the agri-food sector is fully committed to improving water quality and the sustainability of the environment within which it operates is greatly appreciated." Minister Muir in his letter said that the legally-required NAP review is an "important opportunity to shape the actions we can take together" over the next four years. The current consultation on the NAP 2026-2029 closed on July 24. "I welcome all the responses received, which will be collated and considered in the coming weeks," the minister said. "My department is currently finalising the next steps and the processes for the development of the NAP 2026-2029, and stakeholders will receive information about this in the coming weeks. "In particular, given the level of interest from a range of stakeholders in the NAP, and some of the issues raised to date, I have decided to provide an additional level of engagement within this process and further consultation." In the short-term, once the consultation responses have been analysed, they will be considered by a stakeholder task and finish group with an external facilitator, the minister confirmed. This group will include representatives from farming, agri-food, environmental groups and the department. "It will also be able to consider and bring forward alternative solutions for consideration by working collaboratively," Minister Muir explained. "The group will take into account the proposals consulted upon, the consultation responses to date, and any other potential solutions raised within the group." The group will be asked to propose measures and actions that will meet legislative requirements, are evidence-based and workable at farm level within realistic timeframes, according to the minister. "During this process, consideration will be given to the economic impact of the proposals including the revised proposals and a draft economic impact assessment will be prepared," he said. "The group will provide an additional level of engagement in the policy development process. "When its work is completed, the department will then undertake a further, statutory compliant, eight-week consultation. "This will give wider stakeholders and the public an opportunity to provide views on any updated proposals. "I will take these into account in making my final decision on the updated NAP, which will be referred to the executive committee for consideration." Minister Muir said he acknowledges that some of the proposed measures in the NAP consultation will require investment, and officials within his department will consider how that funding need can be met. He said he is due to meet the Finance Minister to discuss the support that can be provided. The minister also said that in relation to sewage pollution, "I wish to repeat my clear view that agriculture is not the only contributor to what has been happening at Lough Neagh and many other waterbodies across NI". "I have been consistently on the record that the separate regulatory regime with NI Water on wastewater known as SORPI needs to change and I will be bringing proposals to my executive colleagues on the matter over the time ahead," Minister Muir added.
Belfast Telegraph
4 days ago
- Politics
- Belfast Telegraph
Andrew Muir: ‘Keyboard warriors' who posted homophobic slurs and death threat ‘won't intimidate me'
It was in the days following the publication of plans by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to tackle water pollution that the Alliance MLA received a deluge of online abuse. And while he says there remains an open police investigation into one death threat, Mr Muir said what really impacted him were the online attacks on colleagues and staff members. 'To see comments on social media about them which are derogatory and misogynistic has really, really depressed me… a small minority are incapable of a respectful dialog around what is a key policy issue in Northern Ireland,' he told Ulster Business. After taking up the post as Agriculture Minister in early 2024, the devastation of Lough Neagh became a clear crisis point for him, and the wider Executive. And with blue-green algae returning once again this year, Mr Muir said not only is tackling the issue something we can do 'but we must' describing it as the 'biggest environmental catastrophe in Northern Ireland'. 'Not only are we seeing the collapse of nature and biodiversity, but 40% of our drinking water comes from Lough Neagh,' he said. And on water quality in general, he said the problems are 'not just Lough Neagh… we're decades in the making, and we're all going to be decades in the fixing'. '… there's a broad sphere of infrastructure we need to invest in, and that needs to be taken forward as part of an investment strategy for Northern Ireland, which is still waiting for publication,' he said. Then, this year, the minister released a consultation into his Nutrients Action Plan. This iteration aims to tackle water quality, linked to Lough Neagh, including reducing phosphorus levels. The wider agri sector has since expressed its own concerns and warned it could have major consequences for many farmers here. 'I understand the concern expressed by key actors within the agri food sector, and also the complexity of the proposals that are out for consultation,' Mr Muir said. 'I would reiterate again, these are draft proposals. No final decision has been taken, and this is a consultation. 'I also want to reiterate my commitment to setting up a small stakeholder group once the consultation closes, for us to consider the responses and to map a way forward together. 'What we have to do is we have to navigate a way forward which improves water quality in Northern Ireland, but also delivers that successful and sustainable future for agriculture.' The Minister had been urged to withdraw the current public consultation on the Nutrients Action Programme 2026-29, which finished at the end of July, with the Assembly backing a motion opposing the current proposals. On the Minister's Climate Action Plan – which he hopes could go before the Executive next year – Mr Muir said 'we need to do more to improve our environment, but we do that by bringing together financial and environmental sustainability, because both go hand-in-hand'. 'Agriculture and farming go in harmony with the environment,' he says. 'That's how it is successful. 'In terms of agriculture, we have got a success story to tell as part of the Climate Action Plan, which is in terms of farming and agriculture coming forward with smarter and more productive ways of working, which deliver profitability but also reduce those greenhouse gas emissions. '… there's more to do. I know there's more to do, but I've seen people who are up for that challenge and understand that going together on this, by working with our department and working with agri-food sector, we can deliver a successful future ahead.' Turning to the recent decision on the long-awaited A5 roads upgrade – whereby a green light was quashed by a court as it would breach a legislative goal of cutting greenhouse gas emissions, outlined in the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, Mr Muir said: 'It will take a while for it to be considered full, and obviously it's primarily a matter for the Infrastructure Minister,' he said. 'My initial view of this is that there's a variety of issues in the judgment, which we're going to take time to walk through [them]. 'But we just need to take a broader perspective on this – the first is… the thoughts are with the families of those people [killed on the road]. 'And secondly, that we shouldn't lose sight of the impact of the collapse of these institutions with the climate change legislation, when it was passed. 'If these institutions had been sitting, we would have been very well down in terms of the road and taking action on climate change.' Renewable generation remains a hot topic here. We're supposed to be hitting the 80% mark by 2030 but are actually generating less green energy – some 43% – than we were a year ago. So, and I've asked this question to other ministers – is that figure completely unrealistic? 'We've got a number of targets to meet, and our road to net zero,' Mr Muir said. 'They are challenging, but they wouldn't be proper targets if they weren't challenging, and this requires a whole Executive approach. 'So, while I have lead responsibility for climate change, it requires other sectors and other ministers to step up and deliver upon that.' He said that includes a faster and more agile planning system, and dealing with our grid capacity. He says a hiatus on the Stormont Executive for two years also impacted wider decision-making here. And on the online abuse which he received – including a death threat – Mr Muir said he will 'not be intimidated'. 'I really am appalled to see those comments, the comments in relation to myself and then the death threat to myself are disconcerting – yes – but I'll not be intimidated by that,' he said. 'Since the day and hour I came in as minister, I've been welcomed by many [people] across Northern Ireland into their homes. We've had respectful dialog, and that's the farming community I know, and this social media commentary does not reflect the people I know. 'Also, many people within agri food, professional leaders, who have reached out to me on a personal basis to express their abhorence to that. 'That's the Northern Ireland I know. That's the Northern Ireland I love, and the keyboard warriors do not reflect that.' Mr Muir also received a death threat, which he says is 'now under active investigation by police'. 'This seems to be a trait that people feel is acceptable to post stuff online… which is threatening... I'm very thankful for the police and the response.'
Agriland
31-07-2025
- Politics
- Agriland
Muir: Stakeholder group to examine NAP proposals
Minister for the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), Andrew Muir has said that a stakeholder group will be appointed to examine proposals for the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) in Northern Ireland. The minister made the comments today (Monday, June 30) as he issued an update on the ongoing public consultation for the revised NAP. "The Nutrients Action Programme, was introduced 18 years ago to fulfil our legal requirement to reduce water pollution from agricultural sources, with much good work undertaken to date by farmers," Minister Muir said. "The legally required NAP review is an important opportunity to shape the actions we can take together over the next four years," he added. Minister Muir said that "it is vital we take further actions to improve water quality in our rivers, lakes and loughs". "I am firmly committed to delivery of the Lough Neagh Action Plan and Programme for government commitments, and in doing so, an urgent and collective endeavour is critical," he said. The minister said that when the public consultation on the updated NAP closes at 11:59p.m on July 24, 2025, DAERA will set up "a timebound stakeholder task and finish group" This group will include an external facilitator and representatives from farming, agri-food, environmental groups and the department. "Working collaboratively and taking into account the consultation responses, plus any other potential solutions, the group will be asked to propose measures and actions, that are evidence-based and workable at farm level within realistic timeframes, as well as meeting legislative requirements," Muir said. The minister also said that as part of this process a draft Economic Impact Assessment will be prepared on the revised proposals. A further eight-week public consultation will then be carried out on the updated proposals and the draft Economic Impact Assessment. Minister for the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for Northern Ireland, Andrew Muir Minister Muir reiterated that he "will work with everyone as part of the current NAP review and that no final decisions have been taken". "I extended the original public consultation period to give interested parties more time to consider the complex proposals and previously outlined my commitment to establishing a focused stakeholder group to help inform the way ahead. 'I have also made clear that some of the draft measures will of course require funding support and officials within my department are considering how we can meet that need in the time ahead. 'Following the work of the focused stakeholder group, I also intend to undertake a further eight-week consultation, in the spirit of openness and transparency, to give the public and wider stakeholders an opportunity to provide views on any updated proposals, before taking my final decisions on the updated NAP to the Executive for agreement," he said. Minister Muir encouraged anyone who has not yet responded to the NAP public consultation to do so. "We are also providing further clarification on the DAERA website in response to issues raised during the consultation process. "I am determined that we chart a way forward together to protect and improve our environment and support sustainable and successful farm businesses," he said.
Agriland
31-07-2025
- Business
- Agriland
UFU campaign to recruit CEO underway
A recruitment campaign is underway to find a new chief executive officer of the Ulster Farmers' Union (UFU). Current CEO, Wesley Aston is set to retire at the end of March next year. With 34 years of service to the UFU including 10 as CEO, the union has said that Wesley has been pivotal in guiding the organisation and the farming industry through some of the most challenging times including BSE (bovine spongiform encephalopathy), foot and mouth disease, Brexit, Covid-19 and more recently, the development of a new overarching sustainable agriculture support programme for Northern Ireland. Wesley Aston, UFU CEO From a small beef and sheep farm in Co. Armagh, Wesley began as policy officer in 1991 looking after the fish farming, pig and poultry committees before taking up the role of policy director in 1995. At that time, he also became secretary to the dairy committee when milk marketing boards were being deregulated. In 2015, he was appointed CEO. Applications for the CEO role is now open until 22 August. UFU president William Irvine said: 'We are now beginning the recruitment process for the next CEO of the UFU. "In recent years, the farming industry has faced a series of significant challenges from inheritance tax to the Nutrients Action Programme proposals and TB remains a significant issue. "It's clear that going forward, new and complex issues will continue to emerge. 'Therefore, we're seeking a strong, strategic leader who can guide our member focused organisation through the next chapter," he added. The UFU has stated that the successful candidate for the role of CEO will work closely with the committees, senior leadership and stakeholders across industry and government to represent the voice of farming families ensuring the union remains effective, financially sustainable and responsive to the evolving needs of our members. 'We welcome applications from across the UK and Ireland and look forward to engaging with candidates who share our vision and values as we move through this important recruitment process,' Irvine added.
Agriland
13-06-2025
- Politics
- Agriland
Ag Committee chair calls for withdrawal of NAP public consultation
The chairperson of the Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (AERA) Committee, Robbie Butler has called for the withdrawal of the current Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) public consultation in Northern Ireland. Butler did so courtesy of his contribution to a Stormont Assembly debate on the matter earlier this week. Butler said in his address: 'There is no doubt that improving water quality in Lough Neagh and in our rivers is essential. 'No one in this chamber, and certainly no one in our rural communities, denies the scale of the problem.' NAP public consultation The AERA committee chair went on to explain why he felt the NAP public consultation should be withdrawn. ' But we must be honest: the proposals currently on the table risk alienating the very people whose buy-in, expertise and practical action are essential to achieving real, lasting change,' Butler said. 'Over 3,500 farms face the prospect of stricter phosphorus limits, compulsory buffer strips, and mandatory investment in low-emission slurry equipment. 'These NAP proposals are not being introduced into a vacuum. They come at a time of immense financial pressure, workforce stress, and a growing sense of disconnect between policy-makers and those working the land.' The AERA committee chairperson went on to confirm his attendance at a recent service of remembrance to honour those who have died on farms, whether by tragic accident or by suicide. He said: 'That reality is a sobering reminder of the toll these pressures are already taking. 'With serious and very real pressures growing on family farms in Northern Ireland, we must without doubt face up to our environmental responsibilities: but we must not break our farmers to do so. 'That's why I support the call for the withdrawal of the NAP consultation: not to abandon progress, but to create space for a better, fairer, more joined-up approach. One that is evidence-based, co-designed, and genuinely multi-sectoral.' Threats to water quality But the Lagan Valley-based Ulster Unionist Party politician feels that simply to end the NAP public consultation process does not go far enough. He said he wants to ensure that agriculture is not seen as the only source of pollution affecting Lough Neagh. Nor is it the only sector in need of reform. Butler explained: 'Water quality in our rivers and lakes is being degraded not just by nutrient runoff, but also by inadequate wastewater treatment infrastructure, industrial discharge, urban runoff, and rising temperatures driven by climate change. 'Invasive species like zebra mussels have altered the very ecology of the lough. 'The question of whether to dredge or not to dredge remains contentious. These wider factors must be part of the conversation too : not pushed to the sidelines.' Butler outlined the type of strategy he felt should replace the current NAP public consultation. 'If we isolate agriculture while ignoring these other pressures, we risk making the same mistakes again. Worse still, we risk losing the confidence of rural communities; communities who want to be part of the solution but too often feel they are treated as the problem.' 'That's why we need a reset. A strategy that respects farmers, rewards best practice, and reflects the collective responsibility we all share for protecting our environment. 'That includes collaboration between the minister for agriculture, environment and rural affairs and the minister for infrastructure — particularly around the chronic underinvestment in wastewater infrastructure that continues to contribute to pollution across the region.'
