The Ulster Farmers’ Union (UFU) is calling on the agricultural community to join the UFU rally later today, November 18, against proposed changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR).

Farmers, landowners, and supporters are urged to attend a rally today at 7.30pm at the Eikon Exhibition Centre.

William Irvine, president of UFU, said a strong turnout is crucial to show MPs and executive representatives the threat this policy shift poses to family farms, rural businesses, and food security.

The rally will be attended by key policymakers, including DAERA Minister Andrew Muir, Carla Lockhart MP, Jim Allister MP, Claire Sugden MLA, Patsy McGlone MLA, Declan McAleer MLA, and Robbie Butler MLA.

Emma Little-Pengelly, deputy First Minister, and Gordon Lyons, minister for the Department for Communities, are also expected to attend.

To sign the UFU’s petition, go to www.surveymonkey.com/r/UFUpetition.

The UFU claims the proposals have far-reaching implications.

Mr Irvine said: "This threatens the sustainability of over 24,000 family farms, impacting not only current farm families but future generations that will inherit and care for the land.

"The ripple effect will extend to rural businesses that rely on farming, casting doubt over their own future if farms cannot stay viable.

"We can’t stand by as these decisions are made without our voices in the room.

"The disconnect between policymakers and the realities facing farmers is deeply concerning.

"We must make clear that this will affect not only our livelihoods as farmers, but the strength of our entire rural economy."

The UFU is committed to continuing the fight beyond the rally.

Mr Irvine said: "We will bring the anger from this rally to Westminster at the NFU’s lobby on Tuesday 19 November.

"We’ll also deliver the UFU’s petition signatories directly to those in power, showing the strength of our community’s stand."