LABOUR'S Budget is having an impact on the mental health of young farmers and the long-term viability of agriculture in the region, according to an MLA. 

In a recent exchange at the Northern Ireland Assembly, UUP MLA Robbie Butler raised urgent concerns about the mental health challenges facing young farmers, particularly in light of the Budget passed two weeks ago.

He said: “You will know that mental health is an issue of real primacy for me and young people.

“Will you outline to us what engagement will look like with young people, and particularly young farmers?

"I am thinking about the Budget from two weeks ago. Its further implications may mean that they [young farmers] do not see a future for themselves in farming and in agriculture more widely.

"How will the just transition fit into that and perhaps protect them?”

In his response, Minister for Agriculture Andrew Muir acknowledged the “real anxiety” among young people, particularly in the farming sector.

“I get the particular concerns that you outlined about young people working in farming,” responded Mr. Muir said.

“We need to have succession planning and to give people hope for the future. That is what I am doing day in and day out.

"It is absolutely vital that we get young people into farming and agriculture in Northern Ireland.”

Minister Muir went on to emphasise the government’s commitment to addressing these issues through initiatives such as a planned citizens’ assembly for young people on climate change.