Northern Ireland's Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) is seeking views on the proposed 'Farming for Nature Package' element of its Future Agricultural Policy proposals, which are up for public consultation.

The consultation closes on Tuesday, February 15.

Speaking about the proposals, agriculture and environment minister Edwin Poots said:

“I have proposed a Farming for Nature Package that could be used to support farmers across all land types to make substantial contributions to environmental improvements and sustainability, while continuing to pursue increased productivity and improved resilience within an effective functioning supply chain.”

The following principles are proposed in the development of a Farming for Nature Package:

“It is proposed that the Farming for Nature Package will encompass a number of bespoke support schemes that will be available depending on the type of land managed," Poots continued.

"The initial focus of the Farming for Nature Package is proposed to be on actions to maintain and improve biodiversity at farm and landscape level.

“A number of proposals, for example around hedgerow management, the restoration of dry stone walls, field margins, buffer strips and trees, are contained in the consultation document.”

Responses and views can be submitted via the DAERA website.