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The rising fuel prices have prompted the Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) to seek financial assistance from the Stormont Executive and government. This call comes amid widespread concerns over increasing costs faced by farmers, particularly due to the conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran which has driven global fuel costs upwards. Earlier this month, Northern Ireland’s first and deputy first ministers reached out to the UK prime minister requesting support measures for those experiencing economic strain.
William Irvine, the UFU president, described the current conditions as a “crunch” moment for agriculture, with not only fuel but also energy and fertiliser prices escalating sharply. He highlighted that several European countries and the Republic of Ireland have already implemented support plans for their agricultural sectors in response to these challenges. Irvine emphasized that without intervention, the increased costs will inevitably be passed down to consumers, impacting everyone.
During a meeting with political parties at Stormont, Irvine sought backing before heading to Westminster to present the union’s case. The Alliance Party, responsible for agriculture and environment in Stormont’s Executive, pointed out that ministers responsible for communities and the economy oversee financial support for households. Eoin Tennyson, the party’s deputy leader, stressed that Westminster also bears responsibility, especially concerning VAT and fuel duty policies. He urged cooperation between both levels of government, criticizing the ongoing disputes between major parties like the DUP and Sinn Féin over accountability in delivering support schemes.
Meanwhile, the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) urged the Stormont Executive to take more decisive action rather than relying solely on Westminster’s intervention. Leader Claire Hanna proposed easing public transport fares to encourage alternatives to car travel and suggested extending rural fuel duty relief to Northern Ireland. She accused the Executive of shirking its duties by insisting Westminster handle the crisis, asserting that government officials who avoid responsibility will still seek public recognition when financial aid is eventually distributed. The DUP’s Gordon Lyons plans to propose a method for utilizing the existing £17 million fund at the Executive meeting, with hopes that additional funding can be secured to widen support. Sinn Féin’s First Minister Michelle O’Neill expressed willingness to back these efforts while reiterating criticism of the UK government’s priorities amidst the crisis. Other voices, such as Ulster Unionist Party deputy leader Diana Armstrong, called for stronger action to ensure fuel remains affordable, warning that everyone’s livelihoods depend on a coordinated response
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