Northern Ireland Farmers Call for Government Action Against Tax Changes

Farmers in Northern Ireland are protesting proposed inheritance tax rule changes, citing negative impacts on family farms. The cap on agricultural property relief set at £1 million is seen as detrimental to future farm succession. The UFU is rallying for government action and has gathered significant support for their cause.

Farmers in Northern Ireland are organising to protest against proposed changes to inheritance tax rules, which they claim could hinder the next generation’s ability to inherit family farms. The Ulster Farmers Union (UFU) is urging the government to reconsider the imposition of a £1 million cap on agricultural property relief (APR), which they believe will negatively impact many farmers, despite government claims that only the wealthiest estates will be affected. UFU president William Irvine expressed hope that their rally in London will serve as a powerful reminder of the issues faced by the farming community, asserting that it marks the beginning of a broader movement for change. Research indicates that the modifications could affect about one third of farmers in Northern Ireland, particularly hurting the dairy sector. Richard Beattie, president of the Young Farmers Club of Ulster, noted that the new tax policy may make it easier for larger businesses to purchase farmland, thus jeopardising the future ownership of family farms and reducing necessary investments in agricultural development. The UFU has gathered 15,000 signatures on a petition to overturn the farm tax change, and they are advocating for further discussions with government officials, demonstrating their collective influence within the agricultural sector.

Inheritance tax relief has historically allowed farmers to exempt their land and properties from significant tax burdens. The proposed changes from April 2026 will lower this relief threshold to £1 million, potentially placing many family farms under financial strain and leading to reduced investment in the agricultural sector. The reaction from farming unions indicates a widespread concern that younger generations may be discouraged from continuing family farming businesses due to these changes.

The farming community in Northern Ireland is rallying against proposed inheritance tax changes that threaten the future of family-run farms. With the new £1 million cap on agricultural property relief, many fear losing their land to external buyers due to heightened financial burdens. The UFU is mobilising farmers to voice their concerns and advocate for a revision of these tax policies, highlighting the need for government engagement.

Original Source: www.bbc.com