YFCU Highlights Importance of Dedicated Young Farmer Support at Stormont Briefing

The Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU) today briefed the Committee for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs at Stormont on generational renewal, Farm Sustainability Payment (FSP) entitlement matters, and the need for targeted support for young farmers.

Representing YFCU were Harry Chambers, Chair of the YFCU AERA Committee, and Roberta Simmons, YFCU Membership Development Manager.  They were joined by James McCluggage, Policy & Communications Director with the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU).

YFCU AERA Chair, Harry Chambers said, “during the discussion, YFCU highlighted that there is currently no dedicated Young Farmer Payment within Northern Ireland’s agricultural support framework. We outlined how the absence of a specific payment for young farmers and new entrants creates additional challenges at a time when start-up costs, land values and wider economic pressures remain significant”.

YFCU emphasised that targeted financial support plays an important role in encouraging farm succession, providing confidence for long-term investment, and helping the next generation to establish sustainable farm businesses. Members noted that a clear policy direction in this area would provide reassurance to young people considering a future in agriculture.

The briefing also referenced the conclusion of the Farming for the Generations pilot scheme and the importance of maintaining momentum around structured succession planning.

YFCU welcomed the constructive engagement with Committee members and reaffirmed its commitment to working collaboratively with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and industry stakeholders to support generational renewal and the long-term sustainability of Northern Ireland agriculture.

Picture:  L-R:-   

James McCluggage, UFU Policy & Communications Director, Roberta Simmons, YFCU Membership Development Manager & Harry Chambers, YFCU AERA Committee Chair