Northern Ireland mushroom producers have sought clarity on a post-Brexit aid scheme replacement. NIMGA chair John McArdle warned that growers are facing increasing financial pressures.
“The mushroom industry relies on the £1.6 million annual support provided by FVAS, and if we are to grow the sector and protect our food security, it is essential that this support continues.
“Without certainty on future funding, growers are left in an impossible position. Other existing schemes simply do not meet the needs of our sector,” he said.
The MP for Newry and Armagh, Conor Murphy, engaged with the Mushroom Producers Organisation, addressing their concerns about the termination of the EU's Fruit and Vegetable Aid Scheme. The scheme supports local food production, bolstering the rural economy and food security. With its conclusion approaching this year, attributed to Brexit, there is no clarity on a replacement from the British government.
Local producers require certainty for future planning. The scheme's end without an alternative is causing concern, especially for Northern producers, as their Southern counterparts continue to receive EU support. The MP has reached out to the British Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, seeking clarity on any plans for an alternative or an extension of the scheme beyond 2025. The Secretary is urged to engage with local producers to maintain high-quality local production.
The UK government is called upon to offer support to Northern food producers, addressing the unique challenges faced in the region and aligning with the funding available in the South.
