New year must see milk price increase

Carla Lockhart MP • December 15, 2023

DUP MP for Upper Bann, Carla Lockhart, has said the ongoing suppression of farm gate price for milk is unsustianbale for the Northern Ireland industry, and that processors must look at the price paid with a mind to increase prices moving into 2024.

Carla Lockhart said:

“The reality is that market dairy prices are rising, and therefore the dairy processing industry in Northern Ireland must reset the price point to reflect that increase in global market prices.

We must see a rise in the price paid to dairy farmers for their produce. Farmers have borne the brunt of the cost increases within the supply chain for so long, and this can only be sustained for so long. In Northern Ireland, these are family businesses and we have to see that industry model supported if our industry is to be sustainable.

At the same time, in 2024 we must see the growth and sustainability of the dairy industry supported with substantial backing from the government, including initiatives, policies, and investments tailored to bolstering this vital sector, ensuring its resilience and fostering its growth in the Northern Ireland economy.

We must see these price increases soon, or we will see a valued industry see more farmers exit in the coming year.”

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Carla Lockhart MP reaffirms support for Portadown brethren following Drumcree parade and church service

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 5, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has reaffirmed her unwavering support for the brethren of Portadown District LOL No. 1 after attending today’s Drumcree parade and church service, describing it as another significant chapter in their long-standing campaign to return home along their traditional route.

MP welcomes TB wildlife consultation but says farmers are anxious about mandatory blood test

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 3, 2026

DUP Agriculture Spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP has welcomed DAERA's long-awaited consultation on wildlife intervention, describing it as a vital step towards delivering the comprehensive bovine TB eradication strategy that Northern Ireland's farming community has been demanding for decades.

Carla Lockhart MP celebrates local centenarian Jim Copeland on his 100th birthday

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 1, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has paid tribute to local centenarian Jim Copeland as he celebrated his 100th birthday, describing him as “one of life’s true gentlemen” and thanking him for his lifetime of Christian faith, service and quiet inspiration.

Carla Lockhart MP welcomes victory for Darlington nurses and calls for common sense to prevail

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 1, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has welcomed the successful conclusion of the legal case brought by seven Darlington nurses, describing the outcome as a victory for common sense, women’s dignity and the protection of single-sex spaces.

Harry Graham’s perfect attendance earns praise from Carla Lockhart MP

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 1, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has congratulated Moyallen Primary School pupil Harry Graham after he achieved an outstanding 100% attendance record throughout his entire primary school education.

Carla Lockhart MP congratulates Portadown veteran Joe Robson on remarkable 72-hour Armed Forces Week challenge

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 1, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has congratulated Portadown veteran Joe Robson on completing an extraordinary 72-hour sit-out during Armed Forces Week, raising vital funds for Help for Heroes and shining a spotlight on the sacrifices made by those who have served.