The reality of factory farming in NI
In 2013, DAERA launched its Going for Growth strategy, which prioritised increasing intensive factory farming. The results are stark: Northern Ireland now ranks among the top ten regions in the UK for indoor-reared livestock, with County Tyrone and County Antrim holding fifth and eighth place, respectively.
Poultry megafarms (housing 40,000+ birds) more than doubled between 2011 and 2017, with nearly 50 housing over 80,000 chickens.
Mega farms (over 40,000 birds, 2,000 pigs, or 750 breeding sows) have grown significantly:
| County | Mega Farms 2012 | Mega Farms 2017 | Mega Farms 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|
| County Antrim | 21 | 60 | 59 |
| County Armagh | 32 | 46 | 47 |
| County Derry/L’derry | 9 | 14 | 15 |
| County Down | 13 | 30 | 24 |
| County Fermanagh | 1 | 2 | 1 |
| County Tyrone | 72 | 93 | 91 |
| Total | 148 | 245 | 237 |
Behind closed doors, animals endure unimaginable conditions: barren cages, cramped sheds, and feedlots that prevent natural behaviors. They are denied sunlight, fresh air, and space to move freely - all for the sake of profit.
USPCA calls for change
The USPCA is urging the government to:
- Phase out factory farming by 2050, setting a clear target to protect animals and the environment.
- Invest in nature and climate-friendly farming practices that prioritise sustainability.
- Review planning legislation to ensure due consideration for animal welfare and climate impacts before approving intensive farm developments.Halt
- planning permissions for new mega-farms while an independent review is conducted.
