Debate contribution: Women in Agriculture

Debate contribution by Miss Michelle McIlveen on 11 March 2025.

MLA

Miss Michelle McIlveen

Party at the time

Democratic Unionist Party

Date

11 March 2025

Type

Debate contribution

Business

Private Members' Business

Heading

Women in Agriculture

Assembly identifier

Official Report component 4855655

Read the official Assembly record

Text

I thank the Members for tabling the motion. Despite the critical role that women play in farm businesses, rural communities and the wider agri-food sector, their contributions are often overlooked and undervalued. Often when farmers are depicted, we think of the stereotypical male farmers, which does a huge disservice to the incredible role of women in the sector. While they may not be the head of holding, women are often the glue that keeps the family business together. They are often the driving force behind the success of the business: the bankers; the accountant; the organiser; the cleaner; the cook; the carer; and, as the mover of the motion said, the extra pair of hands at lambing, calving or milking. The agriculture sector is one of the key drivers of the Northern Ireland economy, as we know. It sustains livelihoods and builds communities. However, it appears that women remain disproportionately excluded from key decision-making roles and leadership positions. As a party, we recognise that imbalance and believe that encouraging more women to have a career in the sector whilst promoting those who are already forging ahead in the industry is absolutely critical. Traditionally, agriculture is seen as a male-dominated industry, but women have always been at the heart of our rural communities, farming families and businesses. I am always delighted when I speak to farmers to hear them talk about their daughters, the role that they play and their desire to take over the farm business. It really does my heart good when I hear that. However, structural and historical barriers exist, and we heard about them today. Those barriers include inheritance practices, limited access to finance and land, reduced training opportunities and exclusion from decision-making processes. Despite that, many women have proven to be trailblazers in the agriculture and agri-food sectors. We have only to look at Minette Batters, the former NFU president. She is just one perfect example of how you can rise to the top. At 22%, Northern Ireland has the lowest percentage of women working in agriculture in the United Kingdom. The essential roles carried out by many women in the sector often go unnoticed, and more work is required for women to be recognised as farmers in their own right. As a party, we are committed to supporting policies and initiatives to encourage greater female participation in the agriculture workforce. We recognise the fundamental role that women play in ensuring that farms remain productive, profitable and sustainable. Indeed, in our Assembly election manifesto, we prioritised the removal of barriers that prevent women from becoming more involved in the management and control of farm businesses. We remain committed to tackling those obstacles and to cultivating an environment in agriculture in which women flourish. Attitudes towards women in agriculture must also change, and the proposer of the amendment was very clear about that. The recommendations in the 'Breaking the Grass Ceiling' report provide a clear road map for addressing some of the barriers that women face in participating fully in all aspects of agriculture. We must also look at the next generation. An increasing number of young women are pursuing qualifications in agriculture at the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), which is key to shaping the sector. However, continued investment in training pathways and opportunities for young women is needed. The Agriculture and Economy Ministers must cooperate to nurture and support the next generation of women leaders in agriculture. The barriers that women face are often more pronounced. Long working hours, the absence of maternity leave and the lack of childcare support are real issues that prevent many women from entering the sector full time. We need to explore practical options for supporting women farmers during pregnancy and beyond. The Committee report showed how providing that support, including childcare assistance, can help to relieve some of those pressures. Initiatives such as the childcare subsidy scheme have already benefited many working families by reducing childcare costs by up to £160 per month, and they need to continue. The new Farming for the Generations scheme, which is set to launch in 2026, gives a unique opportunity to shape the future of agriculture. Young women need to be involved in the scheme's co-design and associated financial support. Young people, including young women, are more willing to invest in sustainable farming practices and new technologies. By empowering young women to take leadership roles, we can make sure that agriculture is dynamic and resilient for future generations. The representation of women in agriculture is not just a matter of fairness; it is a matter of future sustainability and economic prosperity. It is really positive to hear a united voice in the Chamber on supporting our women in agriculture and ensuring that they have opportunities and are given the recognition and support that they deserve.

805 words. Text as published by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

Assessment

Not flagged

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Assessed 21 October 2026 at 12:15 UTC by jev-1.13.0 (requested as typesafe/jev) under rubric 2026.10-r9, methodology 1.9.

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