MP welcomes NIRFP funding to promote agri-food sector

Carla Lockhart MP • April 4, 2024

THE DUP’s Environment, Food and Rural Affairs spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP, has welcomed the opening of the 2024/25 Northern Ireland Regional Food Programme. Announced by DAERA Minister Andrew Muir, the NIRFP provides financial support to help raise the profile of local produce.

The Upper Bann MP said: “Northern Ireland’s agri-food sector is hugely important to the economy. The programme is open for applications, and will provide funding for projects an dinitiatives aimed at raising the profile of quality local produce.“


Last year funding was awarded to 17 projects from all sectors of the agri-food industry. Financial support was provided for a variety of exhibitions, seminars and workshops. These included the popular Food Pavilion at Balmoral Show where over 100 local producers had the opportunity to showcase and market their produce.


”Carla Lockhart continued: “The NI Regional Food Programme provides funding for non-profit groups, regional development agencies and registered charities. With summer approaching, I would encourage agricultural shows and other regional events to apply for financial assistance. Food pavilions at agricultural shows provide local producers with an excellent shop window for the quality artisan produce that Northern Ireland has to offer.


“Applications are invited for events and projects scheduled to take place between 1 st May 2024 to 31 st March 2025. The closing date for applications is Monday, 15 th April 2024. Guidance notes and application forms can be downloaded from www.daera-ni.gov.uk. Alternatively, contact the NIRFP management team on tel: 028 90524497, or email: agrifoodsupportbranch@daera-ni-gov.uk

Share

UK-EU reset agreement must deliver tangible benefits

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 26, 2026
DUP Agriculture spokesperson, Carla Lockhart MP, has noted the Westminster EFRA Committee’s 5th report on UK-EU Agri-trade, saying an SPS agreement with the EU could deliver real tangible benefits if negotiated properly. 

MP urges Chancellor to restore confidence in British farming

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 26, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart MP is calling on the Chancellor to use the upcoming Spring Budget to right the wrongs of her previous actions.

Northern Ireland Cannot Be Left Behind Under Industry and Exports Bill

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has criticised the Government’s decision to push through the Industry and Exports Bill without accepting safeguards to ensure Northern Ireland benefits equally from increased financial support.

Lockhart Welcomes Staffing Boost for Banbridge Delivery Office Amid Ongoing Postal Delays

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP, Carla Lockhart has confirmed four new staff to begin work following engagement with Royal Mail over unacceptable delays. She has welcomed confirmation that four new staff members are due to commence work at Banbridge Delivery Office following her recent meeting with Royal Mail senior management regarding ongoing postal delays.

Lockhart Tables Motion Condemning Glorification of Terrorism and Demands Law Change

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has tabled a motion in Parliament condemning remarks made by Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald and calling for urgent legislative reform to prevent the glorification of convicted terrorists.

Lockhart Praises World-Leading Ulster Carpets as a Flagship Manufacturer for Northern Ireland

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised Ulster Carpets following a visit to the Portadown-based, family-controlled manufacturer, describing it as a world-leading company that continues to showcase the very best of Northern Ireland industry on the global stage. With its global export success, major multi-million pound investment and 350 strong workforce at Portadown Ms Lockhart has hailed it a world leading manufacturer.

Lockhart Praises Annaghmore Crown Defenders After Successful Community Breakfast

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised Annaghmore Crown Defenders Flute Band following a hugely successful community breakfast event.

Lockhart Welcomes Lisa Partridge’s Appointment to Support UDR Benevolent Fund

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed the recent appointment of local woman Lisa Partridge to support and promote the work of the UDR Benevolent Fund.

Lockhart Raises Serious Concerns Over Poor Mobile Phone Coverage in Upper Bann

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has raised serious concerns about ongoing poor mobile phone coverage across Upper Bann and is compiling evidence to present to network providers.

Lockhart Seeks Urgent Treasury Meeting Over Proposed Changes to Childminders’ Tax Allowance

By Carla Lockhart MP • February 25, 2026
Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has raised serious concerns and written to the Chancellor seeking an urgent meeting with the Treasury over HMRC proposals to remove the long-standing 10% “wear and tear” tax-free allowance for childminders who transition onto Making Tax Digital.