Sinn Féin MP Chris Hazzard has urged the British government to create a separate, ring-fenced agricultural support package for Northern Ireland farmers.

Hazzard said the current funding system is failing local farmers and rural communities.

He stated that local farmers deserve certainty that they will receive the support package they are entitled to.

Hazzard noted that changes to this vital funding since 2021 have caused farming families to lose out significantly.

He said local farmers are now facing a severe disadvantage compared to their counterparts south of the border because of a Brexit they did not vote for.

Hazzard added that local farmers continue to punch well above their weight and that it is time London recognised their contribution and provided a fair level of support.