AERA Committee Chair and Ulster Unionist Agriculture Spokesperson Robbie Butler MLA has confirmed that the Ulster Unionist Party will support Declan McAleer MLA’s Areas of Natural Constraint (ANC) Bill, on the condition that credible funding is secured, clear and measurable outcomes are defined, and the Bill aligns with a coherent, long term agricultural policy.

Robbie Butler MLA said:

“The Ulster Unionist Party welcomes the intent behind Declan McAleer MLA’s Areas of Natural Constraint Bill and will support its progression to Committee Stage. 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 Bill is a welcome opportunity to correct that imbalance and strengthen food security. But to secure our support beyond today, key issues must be addressed. The Executive must confirm the funding source. Public money must deliver public goods, yet while the Bill references the environmental role of ANC farmers, it does not require measurable outcomes. Payments should therefore be linked to verifiable results. Strategic coherence is also essential: this measure must sit within a long‑term agricultural policy, complementing targeted support for the sheep sector, as identified by the Sheep Taskforce and contributing to wider goals such as the ‘30 by 30’ nature restoration target and increased afforestation.

“Northern Ireland farmers should no longer be left behind their counterparts in the Republic of Ireland and Scotland. This Bill can help secure farm viability and protect rural communities, but without these assurances it risks simply shifting financial pressure within the sector. 

“I look forward to Declan and Sinn Féin providing the detailed answers required at Committee Stage to ensure real progress is made.”