The latest proposals under Minister Muir’s Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) represent yet another blow to Northern Ireland’s rural communities, particularly farmers, land managers, and conservation-focused countryside users.

While protecting our natural environment is a shared goal, the manner in which this programme is being introduced shows a worrying disconnect between decision-makers and those most affected on the ground.

Minister Muir’s Nutrients Action Programme places heavy emphasis on regulation and restriction without adequately recognising the environmental work that Northern Ireland’s rural communities already carry out. Farmers, gamekeepers, and landowners have for generations been the stewards of our countryside, contributing to biodiversity, soil health, and clean water through voluntary schemes and best practice.

The NAP’s proposed controls—such as increased inspection powers, further restrictions on slurry spreading, and tighter land use limitations—risk alienating those very people. The policy focuses too heavily on punitive measures rather than working in partnership with the sector to achieve real, science-led environmental outcomes.

Rather than impose top-down policy decisions, the Department should be working in genuine partnership with stakeholders. This means engaging with the agri-food industry, conservation groups, rural communities, and representative organisations like Ulster Farmers Union and Countryside Alliance Ireland to design nutrient strategies that balance environmental protection with rural livelihoods.

Our message is clear: we support sustainable agriculture, clean rivers, and thriving wildlife but not at the expense of rural people’s rights, responsibilities, and role in managing the land.

Call to Action

Countryside Alliance Ireland urges Minister Muir and the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to:

• Pause implementation of the NAP until meaningful consultation is held with grassroots stakeholders.
• Recognise and support the voluntary efforts already underway to improve soil health, manage nutrients, and enhance water quality.
• Prioritise incentives and partnership over enforcement and regulation.

If you haven’t already, please contact your local MLA.

We fully support Northern Irelands farmers and stand ready with partners to work constructively with the government, but we will not stand by while policies threaten the fabric of our rural way of life.