Swann & Butler meet DEFRA Minister on Veterinary Medicine Challenges

Robin Swann MP and Robbie Butler MLA met DEFRA Minister Baroness Hayman in Stormont today to seek urgent updates and assurances on veterinary medicine supply as the end to the current grace period approaches an end.

The Ulster Unionist representatives pressed the Minister on the need for clear and timely communication to vets, farmers and pet owners, ensuring they have access to information and guidance throughout the transition period into the new year.

Mr Swann and Mr Butler welcomed confirmation that HM Government, working across DEFRA, the Northern Ireland Office and the Cabinet Office, is engaging closely with the European Union to deliver a smooth transition from January 2026.

Swann and Butler also emphasised the importance of horizon scanning by Government departments to identify and mitigate future divergence between Northern Ireland and Great Britain under post-Brexit arrangements.

Mr Swann has also secured a Westminster Hall debate on veterinary medicine supply next week, which will be a further opportunity to raising the issue with the Government

During the meeting Mr Butler highlighted the urgent need to scrap the Family Farm Tax, stressing the unique pressures facing smaller Northern Ireland farms. Baroness Hayman agreed to raise the issue with the Farming Minister and consider its specific impact on the Northern Ireland’s farms.

Following the meeting, Mr Swann said: 

“Today’s meeting was constructive but time is running out. Vets, farmers and pet owners need certainty now – not in January. I’m pleased the Minister recognises the need to better communicate on this issue and I look forward to pressing the case further in Westminster Hall next week.”

Mr Butler added:

“Northern Ireland’s agricultural sector is facing significant challenges. We cannot allow divergence to put animal health in danger. 

“Separately, scrapping the Family Farm Tax must be a priority – I’m grateful the Minister has agreed to escalate this to the Farming Minister.”