Sinn Féin TD, Martin Kenny, has confirmed that his party remains totally committed to the future of agriculture in Northern Ireland.
While participating in a debate on the future of agriculture across the island of Ireland, hosted at the 2024 National Ploughing Championships, the Co. Leitrim politician was asked the question: why did Sinn Féin not take up the agricultural portfolio when the new Stormont Executive was re-constituted earlier this year?’.
“The decision was taken this time around to focus on those aspects of government which will help drive the north’s economy in that overall sense.
“But this, in no way, diminishes Sinn Féin’s commitment to farming and the rural communities,” Kenny said.
Sinn Féin
The debate specifically highlighted the need for agriculture to be adequately supported across the island of Ireland.
Where Northern Ireland is concerned, this will entail the securing of an adequate, post-Brexit support budge.
It was also recognised that production agriculture will underpin rural communities into the future. Making his happen will require farmers receiving adequate prices for the food they produce.
In addition, diversification will be key driver for family farming businesses into the future.
But this will only be achieved if farm gate prices reflect the quality of the food and drink produced on Irish farms.
Securing economic sustainability will also allow farmers to further invest in the environment and the conservation stats of the countryside.
The event also focussed on the future priority of rural communities across the island of Ireland, the need for adequate housing and the encouragement of the Irish language across the island of Ireland
West Tyrone MLA, Declan McAleer, also participated in the debate. He said:
“An all-Ireland approach to agriculture and rural affairs is crucial for the sustainability and prosperity of the entire island.
“Agriculture is the backbone of our rural communities, and many challenges such as disease control, climate change, market access, and rural development do not recognise borders.
“We must collaborate and coordinate on an all-island basis to share resources, knowledge, and policies that ensure the health of our livestock, the strength of our economies, and the preservation of our rural communities.
“By working together, North and South can better address common challenges, build on joint opportunities, and secure the long-term success of the agricultural sector and rural communities on our island.”
