Prime Minister David Cameron confirmed on Wednesday that the British public will vote on EU membership in the near future.

Cameron promised to hold the referendum if re-elected, but he will be campaigning to remain in the EU. However he will face pressure from Conservative party members who want the UK to leave regardless.

The Tory leader outlined his plans during the Queen’s Speech, which marks the start of the parliamentary year and sets out the government's agenda for the coming term.

"My government will renegotiate the United Kingdom’s relationship with the European Union and pursue reform of the European Union for the benefit of all member states," he said.

"Alongside this, early legislation will be introduced to provide for an in-out referendum on membership of the European Union before the end of 2017."

A 'Brexit' will have implications for Ireland as the UK is still our main destination for food exports. If the referendum passes, North-South agricultural policy will also be impacted.

The National Farmers Union (NFU) said the group will look at the pros and cons of membership for British farmers.

"We will need more clarity on what life inside and outside the EU will mean for British farmers. Following that, the NFU will be producing detailed analysis of the pros and cons of EU membership, taking into account the terms of the renegotiation process," said NFU President Meurig Raymond.

Read more: Colm McCarthy's views on the UK referendum