Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has launched the Sustainable Agriculture Programme (SAP) to support the country’s transition to environmentally friendly farming. Minister Andrew Muir highlighted the programme’s benefits, particularly for the dairy sector, which contributes significantly to Northern Ireland’s economy.
Northern Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) has introduced the Sustainable Agriculture Programme (SAP) to promote greener farming practices and improve the resilience of the region’s agricultural sector. Announced by Minister Andrew Muir on February 2025, the programme aims to replace the former Farm Support and Development Programme while ensuring environmental and economic benefits.
A Strategic Shift for Agriculture in Northern Ireland
According to DAERA, the Sustainable Agriculture Programme focuses on four key goals: enhancing productivity, building resilience, improving environmental sustainability, and optimizing the supply chain. By addressing these areas, the programme is set to support Northern Ireland’s farming industry against modern challenges while securing long-term growth.
At the Dairy Council for Northern Ireland conference, Minister Muir emphasized the significant role of the dairy sector, which produces over 2.4 billion litres of milk annually and contributes 31% of the gross agricultural output. He acknowledged the industry’s importance to the region’s economy and reiterated DAERA’s commitment to supporting its transition toward sustainability.
The ‘Farming with Nature’ Package
Alongside SAP, Muir introduced DAERA’s ‘Farming with Nature’ package, designed to reward farmers who implement environmentally friendly practices. This initiative is set to become a fundamental part of SAP, encouraging nature-positive farming while maintaining food production efficiency.
Minister Muir confirmed that the rollout of SAP will follow a structured approach, with further discussions planned at the Balmoral Show, ensuring a well-regulated transition.
The Sustainable Agriculture Programme marks a significant step forward for Northern Ireland’s commitment to sustainable farming, balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.
