Unprecedented and prolonged wet weather in recent months coupled with heavy snowfall has had an adverse impact across many farms in Northern Ireland, according to a charity.
The recent bad weather has made the farmland saturated, local farming charity Rural Support has stated.
Jude McCann, Chief Executive of Rural Support explained how many local farming communities have been affected by the recent poor weather conditions.
He said working in the agricultural sector is a difficult job, even without the additional stress and toll that severe weather conditions have on farming.
He said the impact of such conditions cannot be underestimated; farmers have lost crops, missed production deadlines and their land, buildings, laneways and, in some cases, machinery has been destroyed and livestock lost.
“Farmers are really feeling the strain and at Rural Support we have seen an increase in the number of calls to our helpline since August,” Mr McCann explained.
The charity believes that more needs to be done, and has called upon local politicians to react to what is describe as a "crisis" for some rural communities.
He added: “Our rural communities need leadership and a functioning Executive that can make decisions and release funds that will help them get back on their feet following these trying times.”
'Unable to plough'
David Butler from Eglinton is one of many farmers in Northern Ireland who have been severely affected by the storms.
He described what impact the weather has had on his arable business. “The weather has had a devastating impact on my crops,” Mr Butler explained.
“Not only have I been unable to plough the last few months, but the state of the land means I may not be able to prepare for Spring either.
“This has left me with environmental problems to deal with and a financial burden, as well as the strain it is causing on my health. It is so disheartening.
“We feel like we’ve been forgotten about here and engaging with the local agencies to resolve the issues has been difficult.”
Rural Support has called on the Northern Ireland Executive to return to Stormont and deal with the "crisis" affecting rural communities.
To speak to someone in confidence contact the Rural Support helpline on 0845 606 7 607. The helpline is available from 9am to 9pm Monday – Friday (voicemail and support options available at all other times)
