Gildernew outlines DARD priorities

Michelle Gildernew MP, Minister for the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD), has taken an early opportunity to outline her priorities.

Ms Gildernew said: “I come from a rural, farming background and I was my party’s spokesperson on agriculture and rural development, so I bring a lot of local knowledge to this new job and I know the real issues on the ground.

“I have spent the last couple of weeks getting out and about and asking stakeholders what matters to them. That means that I am now able, on day one, to start addressing the issues and I will move this forward in a partnership approach with the industry”

The Minister said that her key objectives would be to restore confidence to the farming industry and address the broader needs of rural communities.

Ms Gildernew went on to outline five business priorities: “First is the area of regulation and bureaucracy. It is one of my immediate priorities to tackle this problem and address the elements of the UFU’s five-point plan.”

The second issue is the trade in live animals between the south of Ireland and Britain: “I want to see the free movement of animals within the island of Ireland and will make it my priority to reduce and remove restrictions wherever possible. Reviewing the 30-day rule will be a priority.”

The third priority will be to develop an All-Island Animal Health strategy: “Diseases such as Tuberculosis affect all of us on this island. We share a common interest in tackling these diseases and need a joined-up approach.”

The Minister said that she would also be reviewing a number of financial issues, including, prompt delivery of the Single Farm Payment, and will push for the additional resource required for the Nitrates Directive and Voluntary Modulation.

Ms Gildernew is also reviewing the treatment of those farmers who incurred losses due to animals being binned because they tested positive for the Nortestosterone hormone, as: “There has been no evidence of wrong-doing in any of these cases and scientific opinion now acknowledges the possibility that the hormone could be produced naturally.”

The fifth priority is the wider rural agenda: “I want to be a Rural Champion and ensure that all Government policies are fair in how they treat rural dwellers. I also intend to stand-up for the needs of rural communities under PPS14.”

In conclusion, Ms Gildernew said: “Farming and rural communities can be assured of my total commitment to work on their behalf not just locally, but in Brussels too.

“I also intend to support the role of women in rural areas. Access to proper childcare is a barrier and this is something which I believe we can work on to make a difference.”

Notes to Editors:

1. A biography of Michelle Gildernew is available at: http://www.dardni.gov.uk/index/about-dard/minister-michelle-gildernew.htm
2. All media enquiries to DARD Press Office, tel: 028 9052 4619.