New Market Entrants and Sustainability Strategies: Insights from FW Question Time

The latest Farmers Weekly Question Time in Cookstown, County Tyrone, brought together farmers, union leaders, and environmental advisors to tackle urgent agricultural challenges facing Northern Ireland.

For more insights, visit: Farmers Weekly Podcast Special – Question Time Northern Ireland

Sustainable Farming Practices

What strategies can enhance sustainability for smaller livestock operations?

Bronagh O’Kane expressed concerns over the future viability and support for small farms. She emphasized that, with a collective effort, small farmers could drive significant change if the government introduces appropriate incentives.

“Harnessing knowledge and innovation through farmer clusters can make a considerable difference,” she stated, noting that larger farms typically have easier access to investments for addressing challenges.

She continued, “We need to broaden our approach regarding production efficiency and environmental compliance.”

Jude McCann, CEO of the Farming Community Network, acknowledged the pressing environmental issues in Northern Ireland, emphasizing farmers’ willingness to contribute to solutions when equipped with the right resources and policies.

The panel examined the interplay between environmental, financial, and social sustainability on smaller farms, with John McLenaghan highlighting that the average farm size is around 40 hectares, largely comprising smaller businesses.

He pointed out that total farm income for the 25,000 farms in Northern Ireland reached only £43 million, excluding subsidies, branding it “insufficient.” He advocated for farmers receiving greater marketplace value, underlining the economic multiplier effect of investing in agriculture.

Audience Insight: William Taylor from Farmers For Action suggested that the proposed NI Farm Welfare Bill could secure better pricing for farmers based on production costs.

Land Rental Systems

Should farm business tenancies be more actively promoted in Northern Ireland?

Professor John Gilliland noted the unique conacre rental system in Northern Ireland, advocating for enhanced land access for the next generation of farmers.

Though he praised initiatives in the Republic of Ireland that provide tax incentives for longer-term tenancies, he highlighted the difficulty in securing similar measures in the North.

Jude McLenaghan emphasized the potential for farm business tenancies to facilitate young farmers entering the industry, suggesting that transitioning away from the old conacre system could better meet the needs of aspiring agriculturalists.

He also referred to successful matchmaking initiatives that connect experienced farmers with young entrants seeking opportunities.

Despite mixed reactions to the current conacre system among audience members, Bronagh O’Kane reiterated the importance of mentorship and collaboration between generations in farming.

Audience Insight: UFU President William Irvine advocated for tax incentives similar to those in the Republic to improve access for younger farmers.

Engaging the Next Generation

How can we sustain youth interest in agricultural careers?

John McLenaghan emphasized the need for greater industry promotion, advocating improved training and educational systems to retain talent within the sector.

Farmer Michael Meharg shared his passion for farming while noting the role of technology in attracting younger demographics into the field. His use of innovative technologies, like drones, exemplifies potential avenues for modernizing agricultural practices.

Prof Gilliland highlighted the necessity for established farmers to embrace succession planning and create pathways for young entrants in agriculture.

Jude McCann emphasized the changing work expectations of younger generations, advocating for a shift in industry mentality toward work-life balance.

Addressing Lough Neagh Pollution

What are the effective measures to tackle pollution in Lough Neagh?

The panel investigated pollution issues surrounding Lough Neagh, the UK’s largest freshwater lake. Michael Meharg noted that agriculture contributes significantly to nutrient loading, indicating a need for better nutrient management.

He mentioned that over 1,790 farmers have taken steps to implement buffer zones in the catchment area, which helps absorb excess nutrients.

Prof Gilliland stressed the importance of soil health, urging farmers to focus on soil pH, which has declined in recent years, impacting agricultural productivity.

He concluded that addressing Lough Neagh’s challenges will demand a collective effort and a long-term approach due to the complex nature of the pollution.

Mental and Physical Health in Agriculture

How can we promote better health practices among farmers?

Jude McCann pointed out that many in farming are reluctant to seek help for health issues, advocating for a cultural shift to prioritize mental and physical health within the industry.

He called for initiatives to normalize discussions surrounding health, emphasizing that taking care of one’s own wellbeing is as crucial as caring for livestock.

John McLenaghan echoed these sentiments, citing the stressors farmers face, particularly in regards to livestock diseases like bovine TB.

Bronagh O’Kane noted that while farmers perceive themselves as active, they may overlook repetitive strain injuries and the importance of health screenings.

Enhancing Financial Sustainability

What changes have made the most significant impact on your financial stability in recent years?

McLenaghan transitioned his farm into energy production, seeing this shift as necessary for securing fair market values for agricultural outputs.

Michael Meharg evaluated his finances critically, choosing to reduce intensive practices and focusing on soil health to enhance profitability.

O’Kane adopted regenerative practices, including utilizing a worm farm for soil amendment, which increased production while lowering reliance on external feeds.

Prof Gilliland emphasized the benefits of his farm’s proximity to urban areas for community engagement and learning opportunities.

Jude McCann highlighted the necessity of providing young farmers with access to land to foster continued growth in the agricultural sector.