ASH: All Island approach vital for future of Agri-food industry

Speaking following the recent SDLP Agriculture Conference held in West Tyrone, SDLP Derg election candidate, Marie Ash said; “Strengthening North-South relations and having a stronger voice in Europe is crucial to the development and growth of the agri-food industry across Northern Ireland.

Mrs Ash said an all island approach is the only logical way forward for the industry which, across Ireland contributes an annual output approaching €24 billion and directly employs over 150,000 people. It is our largest indigenous employment sector. We must deliver an environment where producers can flourish and where consumers can have confidence.”

Mrs Ash said: “The NI Executive must work with similar ambition as the Irish Government regarding support for agriculture and make more effort to work towards an all-island approach. When we have difficult issues, such as the recent nomad cattle matter, it is important that we work together to resolve them to ensure that these cattle aren’t wasted and that revenue is protected.”  

Mrs Ash added: “Local producers and companies across West Tyrone, in my local area of Castlederg and across the North need our support as we move into an era where local concerns meet global challenges head on. We have a responsibility and need to work together across the island of Ireland and in Europe to face these challenges. If we do, we can have an agri-food industry that is global in reach and aspiration, but never loses sight of the local environment and culture in which it is embedded.”