Minister Highlights Dutch Innovations in Reducing Dairy Farm Emissions

Minister Andrew Muir, from the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), visited a dairy farm in Hoeven, Netherlands, as part of his trip to Belgium and the Netherlands. The farm, managed by Johan Molenaar, spans 67 acres and includes 200 cows. It is part of a Network of Practical Farms, which consists of 100 dairy farms across the Netherlands. This network focuses on reducing ammonia, nitrogen, and methane emissions.

Muir noted the Netherlands' leadership in sustainable farming, highlighting the collaboration between dairy farmers and research companies. He emphasized the importance of learning from the Dutch approach to integrate sustainable agricultural development with emissions reductions. Muir stated, "Together they are future-proofing Dutch dairy enterprises by addressing these issues and ensuring their economic viability while protecting animal welfare and improving biodiversity and water quality."

The visit also included discussions with Mark Roscam Abbing, Director General for Rural Areas, Nature, and Fisheries in The Hague. The discussions were centered on farm sustainability and trade issues, aiming to enhance the relationship between Northern Ireland and the Netherlands by sharing knowledge on sustainable farming practices.

Muir expressed the value of Northern Ireland's ties with the Netherlands, stating, "It’s been good to explore how we can further enrich our relationship by sharing knowledge and expertise on sustainable farming." He also mentioned the potential for developing trade links under new agri-food and drink arrangements between the UK and the EU.