Sheep farmers frustrated at DAERA inaction

The Sheep Taskforce, including representatives from the UFU, have said they remain deeply frustrated over the ongoing lack of progress by DAERA in delivering meaningful support for the NI sheep industry.

Members of the Sheep Taskforce had hoped to meet with DAERA policy officials at the National Sheep Association (NSA) NI sheep event on 1 July on the McFarlane’s Farm, Dungiven. Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir was invited to attend but he is unable to join due to other commitments.

“Last autumn, DAERA agreed to establish a sheep-focused co-design group. However, despite repeated calls from the Sheep Taskforce, this group has not materialised. The lack of engagement and action is simply unacceptable,” said UFU deputy president, Glenn Cuddy.