Ulster Unionist Party Welcomes Extension of Nitrates Action Programme Consultation
In a move welcomed by the Ulster Unionist Party, Minister Muir has announced an extension to the consultation on the revised Nitrates Action Programme until 24 July 2025. According to Robbie Butler MLA, Ulster Unionist spokesperson for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, this extra time is a step in the right direction, but it must be accompanied by a genuine commitment to co-design.
Speaking on the issue, Mr Butler said, "The extra time is a step in the right direction — but it must come with a real commitment to co-design." As quoted on the Ulster Unionist Party website (UUP.org), Mr Butler emphasised the importance of involving those on the ground, including farmers, representative bodies, and rural communities, in the decision-making process.
The Ulster Unionist Party spokesperson for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs stressed that complex science requires clear communication, shared understanding, and practical solutions shaped with those who will be delivering them. As Mr Butler noted, "If the Minister is serious about affecting meaningful and lasting change, those on the ground — farmers in particular, representative bodies and rural communities — must be brought into the process, not just consulted after the fact." This approach, he argued, is essential for achieving real and lasting change.
The issue at hand is of significant importance to Northern Ireland’s farmers and rural communities, who will be directly impacted by the revised Nitrates Action Programme. As reported by the Ulster Unionist Party (UUP.org), Mr Butler stated that extending the consultation is one thing, but Northern Ireland’s farmers need to be partners, not passengers. This sentiment reflects the Party’s commitment to ensuring that the needs and concerns of local communities are taken into account.
In order to achieve effective and sustainable solutions, the Ulster Unionist Party is calling for a co-design approach that brings together all stakeholders. As Mr Butler explained, "Complex science needs clear communication, shared understanding, and practical solutions shaped with those who will be delivering them. Extension alone is not enough. Co-design is essential." This approach is seen as crucial for delivering meaningful and lasting change.
The Ulster Unionist Party’s stance on this issue reflects its commitment to supporting Northern Ireland’s farmers and rural communities. According to the Party (UUP.org), Mr Butler’s comments highlight the need for a more collaborative and inclusive approach to decision-making. As the consultation on the revised Nitrates Action Programme continues, it remains to be seen how the Minister’s decision will be implemented and what impact it will have on the region.
The Ulster Unionist Party’s call for co-design and collaboration has been made clear, with Mr Butler stating, "Extending the consultation is one thing — but Northern Ireland’s farmers need to be partners, not passengers." This statement, as reported on UUP.org, reflects the Party’s commitment to ensuring that local communities are at the forefront of decision-making processes.
