UUP back poor land subsidy for farms - if handouts are costed and 'linked to verifiable results'

However, their support for legislation being brought forward by a Sinn Fein MLA is on the condition that "credible funding" is secured - and is in line with a "coherent, long term agricultural policy". Declan McAleer is bringing a private members bill to the Assembly to reintroduce direct financial support to farmers working on challenging, severely disadvantaged land in the province. Sinn Fein has said the Areas of Natural Constraint (ANC) Bill "aims to deliver fair and targeted support for farmers in severely disadvantaged upland areas by restoring financial support". The UUP chair of Stormont's agriculture committee says that since Brexit, Northern Ireland farmers have lost access to long standing EU schemes designed to support those working in disadvantaged areas. He said his party welcomes the intent behind Mr McAleer's bill, and will support its progression to Committee Stage. Mr Butler added: "However, our support depends on the Executive providing clear answers on funding, targeting and strategic alignment before the Bill moves further. "Since Brexit, Northern Ireland farmers have lost access to long standing EU schemes designed to support those working in disadvantaged areas, schemes that once delivered stability and predictability. "Meanwhile, the Republic of Ireland continues to invest around €250 million annually in its ANC programme, and Scotland's Less Favoured Area Support Scheme still delivers more than £60 million a year. It is neither fair nor sustainable that Northern Ireland farmers, facing similar or greater constraints, remain at a competitive disadvantage". The UUP MLA said the bill is an opportunity to "correct that imbalance and strengthen food security" - but key issues need to be addressed - including confirmation from the Executive about where the money is coming from, and requirements for "measurable outcomes".