To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether he intends to introduce a similar scheme to the UK Government’s proposed Environmental Land Management scheme.

Work is underway to develop an agricultural support framework portfolio better suited to local needs and one that will provide for and secure long term sustainability within the industry.

My officials are working with farmers and land managers, agricultural industry representatives and environmental stakeholders to co-design schemes which will deliver a range of environmental outcomes, including improvements in water and air quality, biodiversity and reductions in carbon emissions.

My officials have been watching closely the development of the Environmental Land Management Scheme in England as well as those schemes being developed in Scotland and Wales and the revised Common Agricultural Policy in the Republic of Ireland. This will help inform the development of future schemes in Northern Ireland.