Ulster Unionist MEP Jim Nicholson has welcomed news that Northern Ireland’s new Rural Development Programme has been approved by the European Commission.
Mr Nicholson discussed the new Programme this week when he met with the EU’s Agriculture Commissioner, Phil Hogan.
Mr. Nicholson said:
“I welcome that Northern Ireland’s new Rural Development Programme has now been adopted by the European Commission.
“The Programme plays an important role supporting our farm businesses, the wider agri-food industry, countryside and rural communities. It is now important that the various schemes within the Programme are rolled out as quickly and effectively as possible so that the benefits can be felt on the ground – especially by our farm businesses and families given the difficulties currently facing the agricultural industry.”