The Programme for Government touches on several of the main issues concerning sheep farmers. But to have any credence, there must be a solid strategy to ensure these are delivered.

There is a commitment to build on important schemes such as the Areas of Natural Constraint and the Sheep Welfare Scheme, which is positive.

Sheep farmers have fared poorly historically under CAP payments and so it is important that any targeted schemes are well funded and also take account of the important role sheep play in maintaining high-nature-value farmland.

It is important that any targeted schemes are well funded and also take account of the important role sheep play in maintaining high-nature-value farmland

On the latter subject, farmers in designated areas who have major restrictions on their farming activity will be keen to see how a review of the National Parks and Wildlife Service unfolds, while a new invasive species management plan will also pique the interest of farmers in areas where invasive species such as rhododendron are a growing concern.

The other key deliverable is providing the optimum market conditions to return sustainable farmgate prices. Export opportunities are highlighted and farmers will expect movement on market access to the Chinese and US markets, particularly after adopting mandatory electronic identification across the entire flock.

Closer to home, sheep farmers’ interests must be protected in Brexit trade negotiations and likewise they will want the Government to put pressure on the EU to maintain a firm stance in negotiations with New Zealand. The development of marketing tools such as Protected Geographical Indicator (PGI) status also offers opportunities.