The Northern Ireland Mushroom Growers Association (NIMGA) has called on the NI Executive to safeguard the Fruit and Vegetable Aid Scheme (FVAS).
The growers have warned that the removal of the scheme without a fully funded replacement would have devastating consequences for the sector.
The NIMGA urged policymakers to amend proposals to ensure that existing levels of support for the industry are protected.
The association also called for any repeal of FVAS to be replaced with a new, fully funded scheme designed in consultation with the mushroom sector and implemented immediately after the current scheme ends.
Mushroom growers
According to NIMGA, Northern Ireland’s mushroom sector contributes £42 million annually to the agri-food industry, with an additional £22 million in the local supply chain.
It supplies 10% of all mushrooms and 40% of organic mushrooms across the UK
However, NIMGA chair John McArdle warned that growers are facing increasing financial pressures.
“The mushroom industry relies on the £1.6 million annual support provided by FVAS, and if we are to grow the sector and protect our food security, it is essential that this support continues.
“Without certainty on future funding, growers are left in an impossible position. Other existing schemes simply do not meet the needs of our sector,” he said.
McArdle noted that the Irish government announced a €19 million investment package for its horticulture sector, which includes direct support for fruit and vegetable producers, automation, and diversification.
“NI mushroom growers are already at a significant disadvantage compared to producers in the Republic of Ireland, and we cannot afford to lose this industry due to government inaction.
“The mushroom industry has the potential to grow significantly, but it needs the right support.
“This includes a safety net to support the industry from a series of shocks that the industry has been subject to in recent years, most recently with Storm Éowyn which has caused hundreds of thousands of pounds to our members which cannot be recouped through insurance.
“Currently, just 40% of mushrooms sold in the UK are grown here—with targeted investment, we can increase local production, boost the economy, and ensure food security. But this needs action, and so we are calling for the NI Executive to act now to address this,” McArdle added.
