Robin Swann MP highlights rural crime costing Northern Ireland farmers £1.8m

South Antrim MP Robin Swann has voiced serious concerns about the persistent impact of rural crime on Northern Ireland’s farming community, during a National Farmers’ Union (NFU) event held at Westminster.

Mr Swann took part in discussions around the newly released NFU Mutual Rural Crime Report, which revealed that rural crime cost farmers in Northern Ireland an estimated £1.8 million in 2024.

Although this marks a slight decrease from £2 million in the previous year, Mr Swann emphasised that rural crime continues to be a “huge cost to our farmers and rural community.”

Addressing NFU Board Members and police representatives at the event, Mr Swann called attention to the growing reluctance among farmers to report incidents of theft—particularly lower-value crimes—due to perceived inaction and increasing insurance costs.

“In some cases now, farmers no longer report small value thefts to police or insurers, as they feel it is no longer worth the hassle due to lack of action that often follows, and a concern of next year’s premium increasing disproportionately – creating yet another financial burden for these farmers,” said Mr Swann.

The event provided a platform for rural stakeholders, including the Ulster Farmers Union, to engage directly with policymakers and law enforcement about strategies to combat rural crime and improve support for victims.

Mr Swann added:

“I welcome how today’s event allowed the NFU and police the opportunity to present the steps they are taking to reassure our farmers and rural communities, but of course more can be done.”

Joining Mr Swann at the NFU reception were fellow Ulster Unionist representatives including Lord Empey, Sammy Wilson MP, and Jim Allister MP, underscoring the cross-party concern over rural crime in Northern Ireland.

The NFU Mutual report, which was formally launched at the event, continues to serve as a key barometer for tracking the financial and emotional toll of agricultural theft and vandalism across the UK.

As farmers face rising operational costs and post-Brexit challenges, Mr Swann’s intervention highlights the pressing need for improved rural policing, tailored insurance solutions, and more robust deterrents to ensure the sustainability of rural life and agriculture.

For further information on the NFU Mutual Rural Crime Report or to access support services, visit NFU Mutual’s official website.