UFU Ulster Farmers' Union : Comment on Farm Incomes

Tuesday, 30 January, 2018

The Ulster Farmers' Union has welcomed the increase in farm incomes generally in figures released by DAERA, but farmers continue to face tough times across many enterprises.

President Barclay Bell says, 'This increase was due to a combination of increased output and a more favourable sterling/euro exchange rate. This increased CAP payments by five per cent and the figures underline the continued importance of this direct financial support. This made up over 60 per cent of farm incomes. It must also be remembered that input costs were up by eight per cent and are continuing to rise.'

Mr Bell says the UFU welcomed the improvement in farm incomes but stressed that percentages had to be seen as an improvement from a very low base. He also stressed that in 2017, arable and cattle and sheep farmers in particular had faced the fallout from weather related costs and reduced agri-environment scheme payments.

'While we welcome the much-needed improvement, there is still considerable uncertainty around markets and support arrangements after Brexit. It is essential we get clarity on these at the earliest opportunity, particularly in relation to a possible transitional period with the EU. It is crucial that we use this welcome upturn in fortunes to plan now for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead,' says Mr Bell.